What is the Mabee Challenge?
The Labette Community College Foundation was awarded a $500,000 challenge grant from the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation, of Midland, TX toward the construction of the LCC Athletic Complex. The LCC Foundation must secure the remaining $576,540 in cash and multi-year pledge commitments by January 14, 2021 in order to receive the challenge grant funding from the Mabee Foundation.
What will the new complex provide?
The Athletic Complex capital campaign is focused on the expansion, major renovation and upgrading of the current gymnasium. The $5,729,900 Athletic Complex project will provide air conditioning, new seating, and other updates to the current gym. It will also make it possible to construct a 21,850 ft. addition to house: classroom space for Exercise Science, Athletic Training, and Physical Education programs; indoor softball/baseball training area; wrestling training area; lockers; showers; weight room; and a fitness center that will be open to all students.
“This grant will help us construct a high quality facility that will greatly enhance the total educational experience available to our students,” President Mark Watkins said.
LCC’s current gymnasium was built in 1987. At that time, the college only had 4 athletic teams. Today, the college has 6 athletic teams that include men's and women's programs. More than 15 percent of LCC students participate in sports.
The renovated and expanded facility will address many shortcomings and offer a variety of educational, recreational, athletic and fitness programs,” LCC Athletic Director Aaron Keal said. “The complex will serve the needs of all students, faculty and staff and provide programs that will benefit the community.”
