Central High alumni propose "Legacy Seat" campaign to restore auditorium seating

Diana Darden, president of the East Chicago Central alumni association, presented a Memorandum of Understanding on June 17 proposing a "Legacy Seat" campaign to raise funds to replace auditorium seats and support alumni and community programming.

Darden said the campaign would allow alumni, businesses and community members to purchase dedication plates to be affixed to auditorium seats. Pricing proposed in the materials presented was $300 per seat, $280 per seat for purchases of five or more, and $260 per seat for purchases of 10 or more; Darden said larger business donors could send funds directly to the school for larger sponsorships. She said I2 Sing America will serve as the fiscal partner for smaller gifts and that donations above a $5,000 threshold could be directed to the school through the superintendent’s office.

Darden described previous alumni activity — naming the auditorium for Dr. Leon Kendrick and staging a reunion and Academy Awards-style event — and said the 1986 auditorium has not had a comprehensive seat replacement. The plan includes staged fundraising events (including a dance/benefit) and possible reveal events in 2025–26. Darden said proceeds would also support scholarships and alumni-engagement activities.

Trustees thanked the alumni for the effort and suggested outreach to area businesses and community partners. Darden said she is the campaign's liaison and would coordinate with district staff to place donations and donor plates.

Ending: Trustees indicated support for the concept; staff and alumni will finalize the MOU and logistics, and larger gifts will be coordinated with the superintendent and finance staff for appropriate accounting.