Baton Rouge Community College Launches Chancellor’s Circle

Introducing a Premier Leadership Giving Society to Secure the College’s Future.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 3, 2025

A Milestone in Philanthropic Investment

Baton Rouge Community College (BRCC) officially launched its inaugural Chancellor’s Circle Leadership Giving Society with an evening reception on Thursday, May 29. The event, held at the home of BRCC Foundation Board Member Robert Schneckenburger and co-hosted by fellow board member Ralph Bender, marked a significant step in BRCC's advancement efforts.

Elevating BRCC's Mission

The Chancellor’s Circle is designed to elevate BRCC’s mission of providing accessible, high-quality education that prepares students for productive careers in a global economy. The launch event brought together a dynamic group of current and prospective members, including alumni, business leaders, civic champions, and community supporters, to connect with BRCC students and witness the impact of their generosity.

Robert Schneckenburger and Ralph Bender opened the evening with heartfelt remarks, emphasizing their commitment to BRCC and the crucial role of philanthropic partnerships in expanding educational access and regional economic opportunity.

"Our Chancellor’s Circle members are more than donors—they are champions of progress. Together, we are creating meaningful change that will echo through generations."

Willie E. Smith Sr., BRCC Chancellor

Transforming Lives, Strengthening Our Community

Chancellor Willie E. Smith Sr. delivered keynote remarks outlining the College’s top institutional priorities and the vital role donors play in fueling innovation, growing opportunity, and advancing student success. The program also featured powerful testimonials from BRCC students and scholarship recipients, highlighting how philanthropy transforms lives and strengthens Louisiana’s workforce pipeline.

Chancellor's Circle Launch Event

PHOTO CAPTION: Top row, from left to right: Robert Schneckenburger, BRCC Foundation Board Member and event host; Chancellor Willie E. Smith, Sr.; Pilar Blanco-Eble, Vice Chancellor for Advancement and Executive Director of the BRCC Foundation; Ralph Bender, BRCC Foundation Board Member and event co-host; Brandon Droy, BRCC Student. Bottom row, from left to right: Julia Gremillion, BRCC Student; Abbigale Ardoin, BRCC Student.

Join the Chancellor's Circle

Become a part of this growing community of philanthropic leaders dedicated to shaping the future of BRCC and its students.

To learn more about the Chancellor’s Circle or to join, please contact the BRCC Foundation:

Email:foundation@mybrcc.edu