As Trinity Valley Community College Cardinal Singers filled the air with songs of hope, reflection, and resilience at the April 30 Spring Showcase, the crowd had no idea an even bigger surprise was in store—an announcement that left everyone speechless.
“When Dr. Huggins said the Cardinal Singers would be performing songs about hope and resilience, I didn’t expect results this quick,” joked TVCC Board of Trustees President Steve Grant.
During the intermission of the showcase, attendees were surprised with huge news: TVCC just received a landmark $1 million donation from Kevin and Jeaneane Lilly— one of the largest single contributions in the college’s history. The gift will go into an endowment fund that will ensure lasting impact and support in music and music education scholarship opportunities for generations to come.
“This contribution is more than a donation—it is a transformative investment in our students and in the future of music education,” said TVCC President Dr. Jason Morrison. “Kevin and Jeaneane Lilly exemplify what it means to believe in community, opportunity, and the power of education.”
As Dr. Kristin Huggins looked on, she was overwhelmed by the news—but what made the announcement truly special was seeing her students’ reactions: pure joy.
“I’m incredibly overwhelmed and grateful for the support from Kevin and Jeaneane Lilly,” said Dr. Kristin Huggins. “When Dr. Morrison joined TVCC, he made it his mission to champion every student and program— and he continues to demonstrate that commitment every day. Not only does he advocate for our students, but he also works tirelessly to uplift our entire community. The Lillys’ gift is a powerful example of that vision in action. This donation is more than generous—it’s transformational. It will change lives, open doors, and help us fulfill our mission of transforming lives through music and education.”
In recognition of this extraordinary generosity, TVCC is proud to rename its Fine Arts Building to the Kevin and Jeaneane Lilly Music Education Center. The newly named facility will continue to serve as a creative and collaborative space for aspiring musicians and music educators. “Kevin and Jeaneane truly put the ‘community’ in community college,” Grant said. “I really can’t say enough about what you do and how deeply you impact this community. Your hard work and generosity are outstanding. It’s clear that your vision aligns with everything our college strives to be. As Dr. Morrison often says, ‘When we put our students first, that is where we will always find our success.’” Speaking during the live announcement, Kevin expressed deep ties to the Athens community and a strong desire to give back.
“We believe in giving back,” said Kevin. “Seeing the talent and passion of these students inspired us. We wanted to ensure that this department thrives for years to come, offering opportunities and scholarships to deserving students. When you see the talent and quality that Trinity Valley brings, you can’t help but want to give back and help it grow.”
A special dedication ceremony for the Kevin and Jeaneane Lilly Music Education Center is scheduled for September 2025, where additional honors will include the naming of the college’s piano room in memory of Kevin Lilly’s mother, Valerie Y. Lilly, who had a deep love for piano and music.
“For us, the renaming of the building shows the legacy of the Lilly family – especially my mom’s,” Kevin added. “She volunteered at TVCC and had a love for the school and program, but most importantly, for the students. She was the catalyst for all of this. Music has deep roots in our family with my mom, Jeaneane, and our three wonderful children. This building will showcase the legacy and love our family has for music.”
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