Philip and Lois Gannon "Second Chance" Scholarship

Lois (Lange) Gannon graduated from Albion College and Michigan State University. She was a teacher and specialized in English, basic literacy, and was a respected reading specialist. She chose this profession because her mission was giving students who struggled with reading a “second chance” for academic and career success. She eventually retired from Lansing’s Everett High School. There she created a comprehensive reading program whose breadth encompassed remedial through college-bound programs for Everett High School students. Its effectiveness was widely celebrated before she retired in the 1980s.

Phil was given a second chance by “Pop” Blanchard- a gifted high school administrator- who eventually convinced Phil to return to school and earn his diploma. He also inspired Phil to become a teacher and attend college. With the help of his extended family, Phil was able to enroll in Albion College. However, Phil dropped out of college and enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a pilot and air operations instructor during WWII. His military service gave him a second chance to return to Albion and complete his degree and prepare him for a career in education. After WWII, Phil continued as a member of the U.S. Naval Ready Reserve, ultimately commanding an Anti-Submarine Helicopter Squadron. He retired with the rank of Navy Captain in 1978.

Phil, a high school dropout with “no future in academics”, ultimately became a college president, earned his doctorate, and was honored as a distinguished alumnus of both Albion College and Michigan State University. All of this was possible because he was given a second chance when he needed it.

The Philip and Lois Gannon “Second Chance” Scholarship was established to support mature LCC students with academic potential deserving a second chance at academic and career success. Preference will be given to non-traditional students who have overcome adversity in their lives, have academic potential, and are enrolled in LCC vocational, technical, or business curriculums.

Qualifications

• Students must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 credits
• Preference shall be given to applicants enrolled in vocational, technical, or business curriculums.
• Preference shall be given to non-traditional students who have overcome adversity in their life, have academic potential and a career goal.
• Preference shall be given to U.S. military veterans