Featured image: Dr. Terrell Tebbetts visits with students.
Lyon College is embarking on a transformative project to revitalize the Mabee-Simpson Library, envisioning it as “…the dynamic heart of academic life on campus — a modern Learning Commons.”
Among those contributing to the project is the Lambda Iota Alumni Chapter of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary at Lyon College.
According to a media release, members have initiated a fundraising drive to honor Dr. Terrell Tebbetts, Martha Heasley Cox Chair in American Literature, who has served as a professor at Lyon College since 1970 and as the chapter’s founding and longstanding faculty advisor.
The Lambda Iota Alumni Chapter members have already raised more than $100,000 toward their goal, noting the amount raised is “a remarkable testament to the enduring impact of Dr. Tebbetts and the strong sense of community fostered by the Kappa Sigma Fraternity.”
To complete the commitment and name the space within the renovated library, they are now seeking to secure an additional $50,000.
The Terrell Tebbetts Reading Room, which will also house Dr. Tebbetts’ personal collection, will provide a space for generations of Lyon students to immerse themselves in the world of literature. The room “…will stand as a tribute to his unwavering dedication to Lyon College and his profound influence on countless students over the decades,” the release said.
“The Lambda Iota alumni campaign to honor Dr. Terrell Tebbetts in the Mabee-Simpson Library is a shining example of the Lyon community coming together to celebrate a cherished professor and the values we hold dear,” said David Hutchison, vice president for advancement at Lyon. “We are deeply grateful for their commitment to the library renovation project and the lasting legacy they are creating.”
Dr. Terrell Tebbetts shared his thoughts on this endeavor:
“When the Brothers surprised me with this during the chapter’s 50th anniversary celebration last spring, I was amazed at first but then immediately realized I shouldn’t have been,” said Tebbetts. “It’s the same thoughtful, loving Brotherly generosity I’ve seen over and over again through the years — like the way 100 alumni Brothers pitched in when Lyon needed to raise an additional $30,000 to equip the game room before the new Edwards Commons opened. Being a Kappa Sigma Brother at Lyon has been one of the best parts of my career here.”
“The Brothers of the Lambda Iota Chapter of Kappa Sigma have always been a group to think beyond just themselves. Dr. Tebbetts has always supported and encouraged that within the group. To thank him for his 50+ years of mentorship, brotherhood, and friendship with so many of us, we thought it only fitting to leave a lasting place of honor commemorating him,” said Watson Neal, president of the alumni organization of Kappa Sigma fraternity. “We invite all those who have learned so much from Dr. Tebbetts over his many years at Lyon to join us in this endeavor to honor him.”
In the release, Lyon College said “…the initiative serves as an inspiration for others to consider similar initiatives, whether to complete the commitment for the Tebbetts Room or to renovate and name other spaces in the library in honor of beloved professors or individuals who have made a significant impact on Lyon College’s vibrant academic community.”
Please visit this link for more information or to contribute to the Lambda Iota Alumni Chapter’s campaign.
Those wishing to explore naming opportunities within the library renovation project can contact the Lyon College Advancement Office at advancement@lyon.edu.
Image: Lyon College
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