Nursing program director Connie Bowler addresses Lakeland nursing program graduates during their pinning ceremony in May 2023

The Lakeland Foundation recently announced that it has received a historic gift from the estate of a local donor who wishes to remain anonymous. The gift is the largest in the 40-year history of the foundation, totaling nearly $2.33 million.

The funds will be used to establish an endowed scholarship fund for students in Lakeland’s nursing program to assist future health care professionals in pursuit of their nursing careers.

This individual had a long-term relationship with The Lakeland Foundation for many years, having given regularly to support nursing scholarships.

“We are grateful that The Lakeland Foundation was chosen as the recipient of the estate. We know this donor felt strong ties to Lakeland and we are proud to honor their legacy,” shared Greg Sanders, vice president for institutional advancement & executive director of The Lakeland Foundation. “From conversations we had, I know that this donor thought very highly of Lakeland’s nursing program and wanted to ensure future students would have access to a Lakeland education.”

“This individual’s longstanding career in health care positively impacted the lives of thousands of patients and this transformational gift will continue to impact students in the health care field for generations to come,” added Lakeland’s nursing program director Connie Bowler, DNP, RN. “This individual had an appreciation for high quality health care and Lakeland’s nursing program helps to deliver that care regionally, nationally and globally.”

For more information about scholarships offered by The Lakeland Foundation, visit Lakeland’s financial aid website.

ABOUT THE LAKELAND FOUNDATION

The Lakeland Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1982 as the fundraising entity for Lakeland Community College. Gifts made to The Lakeland Foundation support the programs, initiatives and priorities of Lakeland Community College.

Guided by the college's mission of addressing the needs of our community through education, The Lakeland Foundation partners with individuals, businesses and organizations to create opportunities, relationships and resources students need to succeed at Lakeland and in life.

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