Lee College Comes to Dayton Rotary Club

Rotary President Tami Pierce welcomed everyone and then introduced Mrs. Jennifer Garcia, Director of Major and Planned Gifts from Lee College. Mrs. Garcia explained her unique position as she works for both Lee College Foundation and Lee College. She discussed the Office of Resource Development and how her role is to ask for money to give money to students in the form of scholarships and grants. Lee College’s mission is to provide opportunities to students that will change their lives forever. “Last fall alone, we awarded over $200,000 in scholarships to our students.”

Garcia gave two examples of their major fundraiser events. First, the Annual Gala that has been on-going and started in 1969-1970. This event is usually held in September. The second was the upcoming Dancing For Our Stars event. This will be held in May at the Dayton Community Center. Mrs. Garcia explained and discussed all of the eight couples that will be dancing for the coveted ‘mirror ball’. She also told the Rotarians that there would actually be three awards given on that May 21 evening. The mirror ball award (from the judges), the highest donor, and the people’s choice award. Garcia recognized Dr. Jessica Johnson as the only Superintendent that agreed to be a contestant. “It is all about our students and changing lives.”

At the end of her program there were many questions and then Mrs. Garcia gave out five door prizes. For more information for those who might like to donate can contact her at 281-425-6361 or contact Dr. Jessica Johnson at 936-258-2667. No donation is too small or too great for our students. Every dollar will be going towards scholarships and books.