Franklin College Receives Grant from Branigin Foundation
Franklin College has received a $56,000 grant from the Elba L. and Gene Portteus Branigin Foundation. The grant will support the continuation and 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. We are deeply appreciative of the Branigin Foundation’s ongoing commitment to our mission.”
“Empowering students to bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional roles is exactly the kind of impactful work the Branigin Foundation aims to support,” noted Brooke Worland, Ph.D., a director with the Branigin Foundation. “We are thrilled to see this grant breathe new life into Hamilton Auditorium and provide even more students with the chance to showcase their research, professionalism, and creativity.”
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.
Engaged learning remains a cornerstone of the Franklin College curriculum, emphasizing experiential education, undergraduate research and professional development across disciplines.
“This grant allows us to invest in programs that are central to student success and institutional vitality,” said Kristin C. Flora, Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs and dean of the College. “By supporting innovative teaching, outreach and student engagement, the Branigin Foundation helps us respond to enrollment challenges while ensuring our students graduate with the skills and experiences they need to thrive. We are immensely grateful for this continued partnership.”
About Elba L. and Gene Portteus Branigin Foundation
The Elba L. and Gene Portteus Branigin Foundation was created in 1986 by Gene Portteus Branigin. The Foundation encourages and supports civic, educational, charitable, religious and public benefit organizations located primarily in Johnson County and Central Indiana. The Foundation continues the Branigins’ legacy of providing financial support for the organizations that help enrich the lives of Hoosiers.