Twice a year, KCC faculty, staff and retirees have the opportunity to apply for a Program Initiative Grant (PIG) through the KCC Foundation. Grants are awarded to programs or projects that enhance the quality of education directly impacting KCC students.
Below, Lifelong Learning Director Casey Fairley answers questions about the department’s recent acquisition of strength training equipment, funded via a spring PIG grant from the KCC Foundation.
How did the idea for this come about?
The idea originated from the ongoing challenge of securing a space for Lifelong Learning fitness classes. After seeing strength training equipment in the Miller Building, I started thinking about how we could use similar equipment for our classes, so I applied for a grant to get a Power Systems Premium Dumbbell Storage Rack with Vinyl Dumbbells. Getting this equipment will help us run more classes and meet the growing interest in fitness activities.
How will the equipment help KCC students?
This equipment will significantly benefit students, employees and community members by providing more opportunities for fitness classes. Lifelong Learning students have frequently requested strength training classes, but we haven’t been able to offer them due to a lack of space or equipment. This equipment will allow our department to provide these much-needed classes. I am also considering offering a before-work strength class for employees to help promote health and wellness throughout the year.
How was the PIG process and do you think you would have gotten this equipment if not for these funds?
The process of applying for the PIG grant was seamless, with all the instructions clearly laid out and easy to understand. The online application was user-friendly and easy to navigate. I also appreciated having the KCCF grant administrators available as they were always available to answer any questions that I had along the way.
Without the grant, we would not have been able to purchase this strength training equipment due to our limited budget. This grant has created opportunities for the expansion and growth of future Lifelong Learning classes. We are truly grateful for this opportunity and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our college and the community.
The Fall 2025 Lifelong Learning schedule is available now! Visit kellogg.edu/lifelong for details.
This Q&A first appeared in the June 2025 edition of BruIN magazine. To read the issue online, please visit kellogg.edu/bruinmagazine.
