CLEVELAND — More than 50 community leaders gathered at Truett-McConnell College Tuesday for the third-annual White County Leadership Luncheon.
During the event, college officials took the time to thank community leaders for their support and to update them on activities on the campus.
Dr. Emir Caner, TMC president, said during the college's 70 years of existence community leaders have played a big part.
"We wouldn’t be here if it wasn't for some influential leaders 70 years ago," Caner said. "I don't think we would have survived if it wasn't for influential leaders over the 70 years who, during harder times they kicked into gear and they propped up something that really couldn’t stand on its own at times."
Caner told the crowd the college is gearing up for a very big weekend, with 1,500 people expected on campus for the graduation of 134 students, including the college’s first master's graduate.
Along with the graduation, the college will transition from a four-year college to university status. And to cap off the day, there will be special ceremony to dedicate the newly-constructed fountain on the front lawn.
Caner also updated the group on the current U.S. Supreme Court challenge the college and six other plaintiffs have before the High Court concerning government requirement to provide abortion-causing drugs and devices through their health provider. Caner said things are looking good.
"The Court has asked for an extra supplemental brief, which is very rare," Caner said, noting no decision is expected until the end of June.
Caner finished up by providing the leaders with an update on building projects on the campus, including the fountain and the new student wellness center.
