The dedication of the Ben & Jane Norton Culinary Arts Center on December 12, 2012, celebrated philanthropy's lasting legacy and philanthropists' ability to inspire hope in the lives of those coming to the Lorain County Community College campus to begin new careers and a new chapter in life.
Nearly a decade prior, the need for individuals trained in hospitality, tourism, and the culinary arts became apparent. At the time, Jane Norton served on the College’s District Board of Trustees and was part of initial efforts to develop a culinary arts program. As a retired dietician, she had a special interest in seeing the program launched.
After countless hours of developing the curriculum, seeking out potential partners, and recruiting experienced faculty, the only thing that stood in the way of launching the new program was the lack of a facility with the necessary equipment and commercial kitchens to support it. With only limited state and local funding resources, it was evident that such a facility could not be built without philanthropic support.
Ben and Jane Norton, along with other dedicated Lorain County Community College Foundation supporters, co-chaired a major gifts campaign launched in 2008. That campaign successfully secured funding for constructing the culinary arts center and other critical projects to keep Lorain County Community College at the forefront of responding to community needs. As with any project the Nortons lead, they led by example, committing their philanthropic support to the campaign. The Nortons grew up in Lorain County and raised their three sons there. Lorain County Community College is incredibly grateful for their investment in the future of the Lorain County Community through their support of the College.
