A gift that keeps on giving.
L. Gale Lemerand didn’t need a college degree to become a successful businessman. But that hasn’t prevented him from appreciating the value of higher education — which he has expressed generously over the years using the bountiful fruits of his labor.
Lemerand, a Volusia County restaurateur and philanthropist, last week donated $2 million to Daytona State College. DSC announced it will name its new $32 million student center, set to open in 2019, after him, even though the facility previously was fully funded. Lemerand’s gift will be used to benefit students in other areas.
(READ: DSC names student center for Gale Lemerand after $2 million gift)
The school’s aquatic and fitness center already bears his name. In fact, you can find Lemerand’s moniker on multiple campuses — several athletic buildings and a major road at the University of Florida in Gainesville; Bethune-Cookman University’s nursing training facility; and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s auditorium.
His philanthropy extends beyond higher ed. In recent years, Lemerand has stepped up and provided matching funds for the Boys & Girls Club of Volusia and Flagler Counties, and Volusia County’s Meals on Wheels, when their state and federal dollars were cut. That’s just two examples of many.
Lemerand’s beneficence sets an example for the community to follow, and his support for higher education is an investment in the future — helping ensure his is the gift that keeps on giving.