Branigan Foundation presents Franklin College with $56K grant

FRANKLIN, Ind. - Franklin College has received a $56,000 grant from the Elba L. and Gene Portteus Branigin Foundation. It will support the expansion of the Branigin Engaged Learning Program, strengthening student professional development opportunities and enabling faculty to broaden department-specific outreach to area high school students.

Funds will also be used to modernize key campus spaces, including enhancements to Hamilton Auditorium, creating a more dynamic and professional environment for students to showcase research, creative work, and applied learning projects. Together, these investments will help faculty design real-world learning experiences that support innovative recruitment and retention strategies while preparing students for success in the 21st-century workforce.

Franklin College President Kerry N. Prather emphasized the importance of the Foundation’s continued partnership. “The Branigin Foundation has played a vital role in helping Franklin College bring learning to life for our students,” Prather said. “This investment allows us to create hands-on experiences that extend beyond the classroom and prepare students for success in their careers and communities.”

The Branigin Foundation established the Elba L. and Gene Portteus Branigin Engaged Learning Program at Franklin College in 2016 with a $100,000 grant. Since then, the Foundation has provided additional funding to support the program’s growth, including grants of $50,000 in 2023 and $52,500 in 2025. These investments have enabled the College to expand entrepreneurial programming, develop targeted outreach initiatives for Indiana high school students, and continue offering distinctive experiential learning opportunities.