The McDowell Technical Community College Foundation has received a new $3,500 gift from Crane Charitable Funds, thanks to a recommendation by local Crane associate Anthony Frady of Crane ChemPharma & Energy. The donation will be used to provide scholarships and address pressing student needs, reinforcing Crane’s long tradition of community investment.
Ken Koesters, Senior Multi-Site Human Resources Manager at Crane ChemPharma & Energy, and Dan Lapp, Site Leader at Crane Resistoflex made the official presentation to the college. This year’s gift continues several decades of sustained giving to the McDowell Technical Community College Foundation by Crane Charitable Funds.
Besides being a great friend and donor to the college, Crane Charitable Funds has supported many needy organizations throughout the region, recently contributing a total of $153,500 to 42 organizations, most of them located in Western North Carolina, according to Mr. Koesters.
Crane’s gift is especially meaningful in light of the millions of dollars the company has invested to recover and reopen following Hurricane Helene, all while continuing to employ current McDowell Tech students and numerous alumni. Their commitment demonstrates not only loyalty to the college, but also an enduring dedication to the broader McDowell County community, even in the face of significant financial and operational demands.
“We deeply appreciate Crane Charitable Funds for once again stepping forward to invest in the lives of our students,” said Dr. J.W. Kelley, MTCC President. “Crane’s generosity provides more than financial aid—it provides hope. Scholarships open doors for students who might otherwise not be able to pursue their goals, and this support strengthens the very fabric of our community.”
Founded in 1855 by R.T. Crane, Crane Co. has long emphasized the importance of corporate citizenship—encouraging both financial giving and volunteer service. That tradition continues today as Crane associates champion causes that uplift education, workforce development, and community well-being.
“We are honored to partner with organizations like McDowell Tech that are helping shape the next generation of leaders and skilled workers,” said Koesters.
To learn more about supporting McDowell Tech students through the Foundation, visit: https://mcdowelltech.edu/foundation-mtcc/ .
In Photo (l to r):
Ken Koesters, Senior Multi-Site Human Resources Manager, Crane ChemPharma & Energy
Dr. J.W. Kelley, President at McDowell Tech
Madalyn Gaito, Director of Development and MTCC Foundation, and Board Liaison
Dan Lapp, Site Leader, Crane Resistoflex
