Lakeland College student award winners hold large letters that spell thanks donors

Thanks to the generosity of more than 1,000 donors, Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign. is the most successful fundraising campaign in Lakeland College's history.

The campaign began in 2016 and will conclude on June 30. Lakeland is excited to share that more than $12 million has been raised so far, exceeding the $11 million goal.

“Our donors are leading the way through their incredible support of this campaign,” says Mike Kotelko, chair of the campaign leadership team and a member of Lakeland's Class of 1982. As of April 30, 1,096 donors have given 2,967 gifts. 

The fundraising initiative is focused on three priorities - expanding student success, empowering the next leaders in agriculture, and growing results-oriented research. 

“Because of our donors' generosity, Lakeland students have access to more opportunities and services. They're learning in new and modernized facilities. And research capacity has grown at Lakeland, with the primary goal of advancing real-world agricultural productivity and sustainability,” says Kotelko.

graphic 1,086 donors

He also thanked the campaign leadership team for generously volunteering their time and talents to help make the campaign a success.

The fundraising goal was surpassed thanks to individuals, families, businesses, foundations and organizations making donations and supporting fundraising events such as the Rustlers Golf Tournament, President's Gala and Feast on the Farm.

Alumni, students, community members and Lakeland employees are among the donors.

“We're grateful to everyone who has contributed to the campaign to help our students thrive and become confident, collaborative graduates. Great things happen when we pull together,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, the college's president and CEO. “For those who haven't made a gift yet, there's still time to be part of this historic campaign. You can play a leading role during this exciting time of transformation for Lakeland College.”

179 alumni donors graphic

Gifts to Leading. Learning. The Lakeland Campaign. ensure the problem solvers, innovators, leaders, and hard workers continue to benefit from the highest quality education and leadership opportunities.

Photo: Student award winners thanking donors. The picture was taken before the COVID-19 pandemic