I was recently at an education conference in New York City and had the opportunity to meet with two LCC graduates from the class of 1982. Along with two other classmates, two years ago they initiated a significant fundraising drive with members of their graduating class for the creation of an endowed student bursary at LCC. These men are supportive of our programs and vision for the future and feel proud that their donations to LCC will have a significant impact on future students. After two years they have gathered close to $200,000, with an objective of raising a total of $400,000 so an endowed bursary will cover the cost of a full tuition forever. As the first class to band together to initiate such a bursary at LCC, these gentlemen are now challenging all graduating classes to match them—to create more endowed bursaries that will pave the way for students of merit from all walks of life to come to LCC. It was so great to meet with them and feel their excitement and desire to give back to their school. When they asked me to present a short update on life at LCC, one story immediately came to mind—Haiti relief.

I explained that last week we decided to dedicate our monthly free dress day funds to Haiti relief—usually an amount of about $800. Noting the extreme devastation of the earthquake and its terrible aftermath on people in Haiti, students were urged by administrators, teachers and peers to dig deeper into their pockets, to demonstrate true compassion and care in a special way beyond our borders. I had confidence in our student and staff response, but I was truly shocked by the outpouring of concern demonstrated. Parents even got into the mix with several individuals offering to match funds raised by specific groups in the school. Across the school everyone dug deeply into their pockets, raising an astonishing $18,000 for the people of Haiti. Moreover, student leaders have not stopped and continue to discuss ways to support the relief initiatives even further.

So it warms my heart to know that a deep spirit of generosity and empathy is alive at LCC. I am so proud of our community!

Non Nobis Solum,
Christopher Shannon, Headmaster