LMC's Annual Student Benefit Auction Returns March 7

34th edition of the event aims to raise over $250,000 for student scholarships and support programs

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Lake Michigan College's annual Student Benefit Auction is set to return on March 7 at the Mendel Center's Grand Upton Hall. The 34th edition of the event, previously known as the Winner's Circle Auction, raises funds for student scholarships and support programs to help make college more affordable and accessible for local residents.

Why it matters

The Student Benefit Auction is a critical fundraiser for LMC, providing nearly $250,000 in annual scholarship support as well as funding for special programs and unexpected student needs. As college costs continue to rise, this event helps ensure more students in the region can pursue higher education.

The details

Unlike previous years, this year's auction will not feature a sit-down dinner, but rather 'heavy appetizer' stations and extended time for socializing and bidding in the silent auction. The evening will also include a live auction, a $10,000 raffle drawing, and live music. The presenting sponsor for 2026 is Sturgis Bank, which sees LMC as playing a key role in meeting workforce and training needs across Southwest Michigan.

  • The Student Benefit Auction is set for Saturday, March 7, 2026.
  • The auction has been held annually since 1988, when it was founded under the leadership of Carolyn Hanson.

The players

Doug Schaffer

LMC Foundation Executive Director, who says the auction has raised over $5 million for student scholarships and support programs over the years.

Carolyn Hanson

Founder of the auction, which began in 1988 under the name 'Winner's Circle Auction'.

Sturgis Bank

The presenting sponsor for the 2026 Student Benefit Auction, recognizing LMC's key role in meeting workforce and training needs in Southwest Michigan.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This year is its 34th edition of the Winner's Circle Auction, now called the Student Benefit Auction. We raise dollars for scholarships to make going to college as inexpensive, and in many cases, absolutely free, especially for local residents.”

— Doug Schaffer, LMC Foundation Executive Director (moodyonthemarket.com)

“We're also raising money for special programs and special needs that students have that aren't expected so that when they come to college and are facing challenges that impede their ability to be as good as they can be in the classroom, we also have support for them in those situations.”

— Doug Schaffer, LMC Foundation Executive Director (moodyonthemarket.com)

What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Student Benefit Auction can be purchased through the Lake Michigan College website.

The takeaway

The Student Benefit Auction is a longstanding tradition at LMC that has raised millions to support student scholarships and special programs, helping to make higher education more accessible and affordable for local residents. As college costs continue to rise, this annual event remains a critical fundraiser for the college and its students.