Hesston College will host its annual Alumni/Community event on Saturday, Dec. 10, with women’s and men’s basketball games versus Region VI rival Johnson County Community College (Overland Park, Kan.) at 2 and 4 p.m. Following the conclusion of the women’s game, Lyle and Erma Yost’s gift of Yost Center to the campus community will be recognized. Admission is free to all.
The 2011-12 academic year marks the 30th anniversary of Yost Center, the college’s main gymnasium, which was made possible by a major financial gift from the Yosts. In August 1981, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for the 23,700 square foot facility. In November of 1982, Yost Center was dedicated on the eve of that year’s basketball season. Since then, Hesston College men’s and women’s basketball, as well as Larks Volleyball, have called Yost Center home.
Lyle, a 1931 Hesston Academy and 1935 Hesston College graduate, was founder, chairman of the board and CEO of Hesston Manufacturing Co., later known as Hesston Corporation. The internationally-recognized farm equipment manufacturing company was purchased by AGCO Corporation in 1991.
“Lyle and Erma Yost have provided vision and support for Hesston College over a span of decades,” said Yvonne Sieber, Hesston’s vice president of Advancement. “Their contributions have helped shape and greatly enhance the college and its mission.”
Activities during the game include autographs by the Hesston College basketball teams, halftime contests, free Larks buttons, a Pop-a-Shot game and spray-on tattoos.
“We hope this free event is a small way to say thanks for the support that is given to the college and its athletic programs from alumni and friends in the community each year,” said Director of Alumni and Church Relations Dallas Stutzman. “We’re thrilled that Lyle can join us on this special occasion.”