New Endowed Scholarship at Labette Community College to Support Future Nurses

The Labette Community College Foundation is proud to announce the establishment of the James and Dixie Aldridge Family Scholarship to support students pursuing careers in nursing.

James Aldridge with the support of his family, Perry Aldridge; Penny and Jeff Wolverton; Kip and Jasmin Aldridge; and Kara Aldridge, gave a generous $50,000 gift that will provide immediate and long-term support for nursing students at Labette Community College. $36,000 will be used to fund twelve individual $3,000 scholarships to nursing students for the 2026-2027 academic year. The remaining balance of $14,000 will create a new permanently endowed scholarship, which will receive a 50% match from the Hughes Matching Fund, bringing the total principal amount to $21,000. The endowed scholarship will provide support for generations.

The scholarships will give first preference to students accepted into LCC’s nursing program residing in Labette County who have experience working in long-term care facilities. This focus reflects the Aldridge family’s commitment to strengthening the local healthcare workforce and investing in the well-being of the community.

James Aldridge, a graduate of Labette County High School, continued his education at Parsons Junior College, now Labette Community College, and graduated in 1952. Next, he served in Korea. Upon returning home, he married the love of his life, Dixie Mingle. He spent his life as a dedicated husband, father, cattleman and farmer, contributing to the agricultural strength of the region. His wife, Dixie, was also a proud graduate of Parsons Junior College earning her degree in 1951. Early in their marriage, she was employed by Parsons Hallmark Cards and later worked for many years in the cafeteria at Parsons High School, where she was a familiar and caring presence for generations of students. The couple has four children.

James was inspired to create this scholarship following a deeply personal experience. During the final stages of Dixie’s life, he witnessed the compassion and dedication of nursing students who were caring for her while completing their education. Knowing LCC’s strong reputation for educating highly skilled nurses through its outstanding program, he chose to invest in future generations of students, ensuring they have the support needed to pursue this vital profession.

“This scholarship is a meaningful way to honor both James and Dixie Aldridge while also addressing a critical need in our region,” said Lindi Forbes, Executive Director of the LCC Foundation. “Nursing students often face significant financial challenges, and these scholarships will provide ongoing support for years to come.”

The Hughes Matching Fund was established through the generosity of the late Pete and Mary Hughes to encourage the creation of new endowed scholarships at Labette Community College. Through the program, qualifying scholarship endowments receive a 50% matching contribution, helping donors expand the long-term impact of their gifts and creating even greater educational opportunities for LCC students.

For more information about establishing a scholarship or the Hughes Matching Fund, please contact Forbes at (620) 820-1212, lindif@labette.edu or visit www.labette.edu/foundation.