Lane College Awards $50,000 Presidential Grant to Launch Honors Program
Dr. Candace Carter’s Proposal Selected for 2025 Next Level of Excellence Grant
JACKSON, Tenn. — Lane College is proud to announce that Dr. Candace Carter has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Presidential Next Level of Excellence Grant, a $50,000 award designed to support bold, transformative projects that advance the mission of the College.
Dr. Carter’s winning proposal, Honors Program at Lane College, outlines the development and launch of a comprehensive, four-year Honors Program that will elevate the academic experience for high-achieving students. Built on the college's six strategic pillars, the program is designed to enhance academic rigor, foster intellectual curiosity, and create pathways for national recognition and lifelong success.
Key features of the new Honors Program include:
- A four-year curriculum with honors seminars, interdisciplinary coursework, and a senior capstone project
- Affiliations with national honor societies such as Alpha Kappa Mu and Beta Kappa Chi
- Signature events including the Legacy of Excellence Medallion Ceremony and Spring Honors Banquet
- A robust strategy for student retention, success measurement, and continuous assessment
- A sustainable leadership model that includes equitable faculty compensation
“This initiative is a model of academic innovation, student-centered design, and strategic alignment with Lane College’s mission,” said Dr. Donald W. Comer, President of Lane College. “Dr. Carter’s proposal exemplifies the type of visionary leadership and academic excellence we are proud to support through the Next Level of Excellence Grant.”
In response to the award, Dr. Carter shared, “I am deeply honored and grateful to receive this grant, which will serve as the foundation for the Lane College Honors Program. This support affirms our commitment to next-level scholarship, celebrating our cultural legacy, and preparing our students for global impact. With these resources, we will provide high-achieving students with rigorous academic opportunities, faculty mentorship, and recognition for their excellence.”
The Presidential Next Level of Excellence Grant supports initiatives that move Lane College forward through innovation, collaboration, and measurable impact.
The Office of the President also extends sincere thanks to all faculty members who submitted proposals for this year’s competition. The level of creativity, dedication, and commitment to student success was evident in every submission.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Carter on this significant achievement and in celebrating the continued academic advancement of Lane College.