© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Lansing Community College Founding President Dies

courtesy Lansing Community College
/
lcc.edu

The founding president of Lansing Community College has died.

Philip J. Gannon was the first leader of LCC when it was founded in 1957.  The college announced Gannon's death on Tuesday.

 

He served as president of the school until 1989.

 

Gannon was also heavily involved in the Lansing community, belonging to several city organizations and committees. In 2016, then-Mayor Virg Bernero presented Gannon with a key to the city.

 

He served as a U.S. Navy pilot during World War II.

 

In a statement, current LCC President Steve Robinson said “Dr. Gannon was a visionary who made an indelible mark on Lansing and Mid-Michigan. The creation of Lansing Community College has transformed generations of lives and careers.”

 

Gannon was 98. LCC says plans for a commemoration of his life are underway.

Tags
Karel Vega served as radio news managing editor at WKAR from 2020 to 2023.
Related Content
Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.