CLC News The news and events from Central Lakes College
The Dennis Eastman Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established in memory of Dennis by his family on the first anniversary of his passing. Eastman was a beloved coach and instructor at Central Lakes College for 26 years. Aside from teaching, he coached women’s basketball, men’s football, women’s softball and served as athletic director.
The goal of the memorial scholarship fund is to raise $10,000 to provide an endowed scholarship fund through the Central Lakes College Foundation. Once that goal is reached, a scholarship will be awarded annually to a Raider athlete who demonstrates financial need.
“Our dad was a coach for over 30 years. He believed that being involved in athletics provided students with the opportunity to gain skills that would help them to be successful in life, whether it was about celebrating victories or working through adversity,” said Megan Ness, Dennis’ daughter. “He also believed it was important to create an environment where everyone felt like they belonged. I know that he would be proud that a part of his legacy is going toward providing athletes with the opportunity to continue to be a part of something special: to be a part of the Raider family.”
“Dennis always put our students No. 1. He had a great demeanor, relationship and interaction with his students,” said CLC Athletics Director Jim Russell. “There was no question from his peers or other coaches that his No.1 priority was his athletes and students.”
Donations to the Dennis Eastman Memorial Scholarship Fund can be made online at www.clcmn.edu/scholarships/make-a-gift/. Gifts can also be made via check and mailed to CLC Foundation at 501 West College Drive, Brainerd, MN 56401.
Contact Jana Shogren, CLC Foundation Director, at 218-855-8129 with questions.
