Tickets now on sale for Lake Michigan College Foundation Student Benefit Auction 33 presented by Carolyn Hanson

January 7, 2025

BENTON HARBOR, MICH. – The Lake Michigan College Foundation will host its Student Benefit Auction 33 presented by Carolyn Hanson at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, March 1, in the LMC Mendel Center Grand Upton Hall on the Benton Harbor Campus.  

Tickets are now on sale for the black-tie optional event, which includes an evening of food, cocktails, live music, dancing, and the opportunity to bid on a wide variety of must-have auction items. 

Since its inception in 1988 as the Winner’s Circle Auction, the Student Benefit Auction has become a cornerstone of support for students striving to achieve their educational goals. Over the years, this inspiring initiative has raised more than $5 million for the Scholarship Endowment Fund, with over $200,000 in scholarship funds awarded just last year. 

This year’s auction is proudly presented by Carolyn Hanson, the visionary founder whose dedication brought this event to life. Recognizing the need for accessible education, Carolyn turned her dream into a reality, laying the foundation for a legacy that continues to thrive. Thanks to her efforts, the auction has not only raised millions but also empowered countless Lake Michigan College students to pursue their education and aspirations. 

“Scholarships made possible through the support of Lake Michigan College Student Benefit Auction sponsors, donors, and attendees have been transforming the lives of students for more than 30 years,” said Doug Schaffer, LMC Vice President of Advancement & Community Impact & Executive Director of the LMC Foundation. “We have so much gratitude for how our community continues to rally around those who aspire to realize their dreams through an LMC education.” 

This year's event begins with two hours of social networking, bidding on silent auction items, and a decadent selection of up-scale, heavy appetizers. The Lake Michigan Vintners Bar features wines by the glass, highlighting the LMC Wine & Viticulture program, and a robust charcuterie appetizer station, while the Journeyman Spirits Bar features premium craft cocktails. 

The evening will culminate with auctioneer Dan McCrery overseeing the bidding on a selection of premium live auction items followed by dancing and live music from The 1985: Totally ‘80s Mixtape Live. The 1985 is a tribute to the best of 1980’s rock, pop, new wave, rap, and metal covering artists like Prince, Journey, Madonna, Poison, Michael Jackson, Bon Jovi, and more in an immersive, totally ‘80s music experience.  

Student Benefit Auction 33 tickets are available for $150 per person. Tables of 10 are available for $1,500. Tickets may be ordered online at lakemichigancollege.edu/support/auction/tickets. 

A separate raffle drawing will be held between 6-9 p.m. Raffle tickets are $100 each and are limited to 300. The top prize is $10,000, second prize is $1,000, and third prize is $500. Raffle proceeds benefit the LMC Student Food Pantry. For questions or to purchase raffle tickets, contact Al Pscholka at 269-927-8140 or apscholka@lakemichigancollege.edu.   

In addition to Presenting Sponsor Carolyn Hanson, this year's sponsors include Whirlpool Corporation, AEP Cook, Sturgis Bank, TPC Technologies Inc., and many others. 

Those interested in becoming a sponsor may view the available sponsorship levels at lakemichigancollege.edu/support/auction/sponsorships or contact Doug Schaffer at 269-927-8120 or dschaffer@lakemichigancollege.edu.  

For more information or to donate an item or service to auction during the event, contact Jen O'Flynn at 269-927-6590 or joflynn@lakemichigancollege.edu. 