2017-2018 Benefactors of the Year: James & Marianne Mitchell
The Mitchell's have provided more than $200,000 in support to the college over the
last 20 years, including the establishment of two scholarships.
Jim and Marianne (Peters) Mitchell both graduated from LCC in 1951. Jim was one of
nine founding members of the school’s spirit organization, known as the Stella Birdhikers
Club.
The Jim and Marianne Mitchell Scholarship, established in 2005, provides full tuition
scholarships to two business students annually. The Eric James Mitchell Memorial Endowed
Scholarship, established in 2017 in honor of the Mitchell's grandson, supports computer
science majors. Jim and Marianne also played an integral role in the Foundation's
Building Healthy Futures Campaign by actively participating in the feasibility study
and leadership awareness sessions.
“Their participation helped develop fundraising initiatives resulting in the Health
and Science Building and matching EDA grant that supplied equipment for the new building,” — Rich Gushman, LCC Foundation Chair.
The Mitchell's reflect on their experiences and share,
“We graduated from RA Long High School in 1949 and enrolled at LCJC that fall. Classes
were held at various buildings around Longview. Buses were provided to move students
from one location to another. Classes were small and the faculty excellent. LCJC provided
an opportunity for local students to pursue a college education while living at home
and working to save money for further study. For us it has been rewarding to be a
part of the growth and expansion of Lower Columbia College.”
“Jim and Marianne's contributions over the years have helped support the growth of
the campus, new programs and students. Their legacy will impact the LCC campus and
students for years to come,” — Chris Bailey, LCC President.
The Mitchells will be honored at the 2018 LCC Foundation Horns & Halos Gala in September.