Clarence and Fran Holden
Distinguished philanthropists in the Brainerd Lakes Area, Fran and Clarence Holden have long supported the higher education mission of Central Lakes College.
In 2000, Clarence and Fran were delighted to underwrite the Project Achieve Scholarship, which is a unique scholarship designed for the average student with above-average potential for leadership. Fran and Clarence knew that, if given the right chance, these students would take this knowledge back to their communities, where it would transform into service on school boards, city councils, or other “give back” opportunities. Since its inception, hundreds of CLC students have benefited from this particular scholarship program.
In addition to their generous scholarship support, Fran and Clarence were large contributors to the Random Acts of Kindness program which supports CLC students at risk of dropping out due to unexpected financial dilemmas. They understood that an unforeseen crisis can impact college completion rates and ultimately poses a challenge of securing a better future. Year after year, their contributions to scholarships and college projects continue to help talented students earn degrees and begin meaningful careers. The legacy of Clarence and Fran Holden will continue to support CLC students not just for one year, or even one generation, but in perpetuity.
Impact
“I want you to know how truly grateful I am for the Clarence and Fran Holden Project Fund and your generosity in contributing to Central Lakes College Foundation. I am honored to be the recipient of your gift and wanted you to know that this gift will help ease the financial impact on my family.”
- Spring 2016 Scholarship Recipient/Nursing Student
“I was very happy and appreciative to learn that I was selected as the recipient of your scholarship… You have lightened my financial burden which allows me to focus more on the most important aspect of school, learning. Your generosity has inspired me to help others and give back to the community. I hope one day I will be able to help students achieve their goals just as you have helped me.”
- Fall 2014 Scholarship Recipient/Nursing AS (RN) Student
“Thank you for awarding me with this scholarship. Without the help that I’ve been given, I never would have been able to afford a college education and accomplish my goals. This spring, I will graduate from CLC with my AA degree. After that, I will transfer to Bemidji State University where I will major in Science Education. I want to be a teacher because I have always admired my teachers and appreciated the education that they share with me. I want to do the same for children in my future, and I hope to inspire children to love learning and to appreciate knowledge.”
- Fall 2015 Scholarship Recipient
“I am truly grateful for the assistance that I am receiving because of your thoughtful gift. When I graduate, I hope that I can use what I have learned at CLC to make a difference in people’s lives, the same way that you have made a difference in mine.”
- Fall 2015 Scholarship Recipient