Honoring Chair Emerita Carolyn Hanson
We are honored to recognize Carolyn Hanson as our Chair Emerita of the Lake Michigan College Student Benefit Auction. 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.
The Lake Michigan College Student Benefit Auction began as the Winner's Circle Auction in 1988 to raise money for scholarships. To date, more than $5 million has been raised. Over $200,000 of student scholarship funds were available from the Scholarship Endowment Fund last year!
Saturday, March 6, 2027
The Mendel Center Grand Upton Hall - Black Tie Optional
Tickets on Sale December 7, 2026.
Innovative Dining Experience!
We’ve traded the traditional plated meal for a more relaxed, social experience. Savor an assortment of upscale heavy appetizers while moving, mixing, and connecting with friends throughout the night.
Social Networking & Silent Auction Shopping!
Enjoy two full hours of social networking! Mingle with fellow supporters and shop the silent auction items in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Your Ticket Includes
$175/ticket or $1,750 for a table of up to 10. Your ticket includes an array of heavy appetizers and two complimentary drink tickets for use at the Journeyman Spirits Bar featuring premium craft cocktails or at the main bar, featuring local craft beers, hard seltzers, mixed drinks, and non-alcoholic options. Both bars accept cash and credit.
Evening's Agenda
5:30 p.m. Doors Open
- LM Vintners Bar: Save your drink tickets! Enjoy free tastings and free wines by the glass as we showcase the Lake Michigan College Wine & Viticulture program along with a robust charcuterie appetizer station.
- Journeyman Spirits Bar: Enjoy premium craft cocktails while mingling with President Trevor Kubatzke and your fellow influencers from Michigan’s Great Southwest.
- Dining Experience: Enjoy heavy appetizers and silent auction shopping.
7:30 p.m. Raffle Drawing and Live Auction
- The evening will culminate with the live auction. Our auctioneer, Dan McCrery, will bring his famous wit and charm as he encourages everyone to raise their paddles for the great selection of live auction items.
9:00 p.m. Entertainment by THE DISCO CIRCUS!
- THE DISCO CIRCUS is an immersive, live, disco party EXPERIENCE…complete with all the glitz, glamour, excitement and groove of Studio 54! With explosive energy and a vibrant take on classic disco hits, The Disco Circus delivers a nonstop party experience. Featuring powerhouse vocals, groovy beats, theatrical flair, and playful onstage shenanigans, the band invites audiences to dance and sing along to crowd favorites from artists including KC & The Sunshine Band, Donna Summer, The Bee Gees, Earth, Wind & Fire, Blondie, Michael Jackson, and many more!
11:00 p.m. Evening Concludes
Make the most of the event
Sponsorships are the key to meeting our fundraising goals. We have a variety of sponsorship packages available. You and/or your company name will be displayed prominently.
View the sponsorships available or contact Doug Schaffer at (269) 927-8120 or dschaffer@lakemichigancollege.edu for more information.
WIN $10,000
Only 300 raffle tickets will be sold at $100 each so your odds of winning are excellent. The top prize is $10,000, second prize $1,000, and third prize $500. Buy your own ticket or purchase one with a group. Drawing to be held March 6, 2027 between 6 and 9 p.m. You need not be present to win; event ticket sold separately. Raffle license #R83129.
Raffle proceeds go to the LMC Student Food Pantry.
Contact Rita Whise at (269) 927-6278 or rwhise@lakemichigancollege.edu with questions or to purchase tickets.
Help build the auction
Consider donating an item or service to be auctioned during the silent or live auction. You can also make a cash donation and an item will be purchased on your behalf and put on the auction block.
Contact Jen O’Flynn at (269) 927-6590 or joflynn@lakemichigancollege.edu
Thank you to our sponsors!
Presenting Sponsor
Summa Cum Laude Sponsor
Magna Cum Laude Sponsor
Dean's List Sponsor
Red Hawks Sponsor