Lakeland Community College will kick off its 50^th anniversary week with a bang Monday, Sept. 25, with a slate of activities including fireworks.

The college turns 50 years old on Sept. 25, marking the first day the college opened for classes in 1967. Since that time, Lakeland has grown to serve more than 12,000 students annually.

The public is invited to attend a kickoff ceremony at 10 a.m., an aerial drone photo at 2 p.m. and a fireworks display at 8 p.m. on the main campus in Kirtland.

At the ceremony, Lakeland President Morris W. Beverage Jr. will formally kick off the 50^th anniversary year by unveiling a giant birthday hat on the college’s Mind Ladders sculpture, which was created for Lakeland’s 25^th anniversary. Local legislators and city officials are expected to present resolutions honoring Lakeland on its 50 years of service to Lake County.

Students, alumni and others can be part of Lakeland history by participating in a 50^th anniversary photo taken by an aerial drone camera. Participants will stand to form the number 50 in the field behind the tennis courts. Those wishing to participate are encouraged to register at www.lakelandcc.edu/50th and wear blue shirts for the photo.

A professionally choreographed fireworks display will start at 8 p.m. and end at about 8:20 p.m. The fireworks will be set off from the soccer field and may be viewed from anywhere on campus. Guests may park in the student/visitor lots. Food trucks will be on campus starting at 6 p.m. The rain date is Tuesday, Sept. 26.

The college will also host a campus cookout for Lakeland students during the lunch and dinner hours.

On Tuesday, Sept. 26, Lakeland will hold a dedication ceremony for a new Veterans Memorial installed outside the Athletic & Fitness Center. The memorial, initiated by Lakeland’s students’ veterans program, will feature a flag display and a helmet, rifle and boots forming a battle cross. The ceremony will include a 21-gun salute and is open to the public.

The Terminal Tower in downtown Cleveland will be lighted up in blue Tuesday evening in celebration of Lakeland’s 50^th anniversary.

Several other 50^th anniversary events and activities are planned throughout the fall semester. Visit www.lakelandcc.edu/50th for more information.

By: Jessica Novak, Mrktg and Commun Specialist