Celebration of Philanthropy Awards

The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) joined Hazard Community and Technical College in honoring J. Phil Smith of Jackson In Memoriam. Shown here, from left, are HCTC President Jennifer Lindon, brothers Len Smith and Hilliard Smith (sons of Phil Smith); and KCTC President Jay Box. Smith was recognized at a Celebration of Philanthropy Awards dinner Saturday, Oct. 1 in Louisville.

J. Phil Smith s name is synonymous with the Lees College Campus of HCTC. He was a member of the Lees College, Inc. Board of Trustees for more than 50 years. Smith, through his leadership role as President of Lees Inc., as well as his personal financial support and that of First National Bank, provided the Lees College Campus resources that enabled the College to positively impact students from around the region. Smith had a vast understanding of the importance of education and showed it in so many ways.

Also honored was the E.O. Robinson Fund. Shown here, from left, are HCTC President Jennifer Lindon, Juanita Stollings, Secretary/Treasurer of the E.O. Robinson Mountain Fund and KCTC President Jay Box.

E. O. Robinson (1867-1934), businessman and philanthropist, established the E. O. Robinson Mountain Fund in 1922 as a vehicle for expressing his compassion and concern for the people of Breathitt and surrounding counties. The Fund has been a major benefactor for the College since the 1960s. Among other projects, the Fund has provided support for the construction of the E. O. Robinson Library-Science Building located on the Lees College Campus; student leadership scholarships as part of the Residence Life Program; creation of a second Nursing Program laboratory on the Lees College Campus; and the annual support of $14,000 for Nursing Scholarships to deserving students and most recently a major pledge toward the Intergenerational Training Center.

Hundreds of business people and dignitaries from across the Commonwealth attended the event, which provides an opportunity for KCTCS to honor leading individuals, business and foundations for their generous philanthropic and voluntary support to KCTCS.