Lane College is proud to announce a transformative gift from philanthropists and higher education advocates Kenneth and Gloria Boyland, who have been inducted into the Jennie E. Lane Society and recognized as founding donors in Lane College’s bold effort to become a Steinway Institution. Their generous contribution launches a new era of excellence in music education and cultural distinction at Lane.
The Boylands’ gift will support the acquisition of a handcrafted Steinway & Sons grand piano—marking a powerful step toward Lane College’s goal of joining an elite group of institutions around the world committed to performance mastery and musical rigor. Among the 4,000+ colleges and universities in the United States, fewer than 200 have earned the prestigious Steinway Institution designation. Of those, fewer than six are Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). With the Boylands’ support, Lane is on track to become one of the distinguished few joining a select group of HBCUs recognized as Steinway Institutions.
The Jennie E. Lane Society recognizes donors whose lifetime giving exceeds $100,000. Members exemplify the values of service, sacrifice, and stewardship that have shaped Lane College’s mission since 1882. Kenneth and Gloria Boyland’s induction into this society represents a powerful alignment of legacy and leadership, ensuring their impact will resonate across generations of Lane students.
President Donald W. Comer reflected on the significance of their gift:
“Gloria and Kenny have done something really special here. Their gift isn’t just generous—it’s visionary. Gloria and I go way back to our FedEx days, so it’s especially meaningful to see her and Kenny leading the way on something so close to the heart of our students. Their support of our Steinway campaign is an affirmation that Lane belongs on the world’s stage when it comes to the arts. And thanks to them, we’re one big step closer.”
Becoming a Steinway Institution is central to Lane’s broader strategy of developing a differential advantage in fine and media arts. This effort will enhance student recruitment, faculty development, community engagement, and institutional prestige. With each Steinway added to the College, Lane affirms its commitment to artistic excellence and cultural heritage.
A special dedication ceremony is planned later this year to unveil the first Steinway piano acquired through the Boylands’ gift. The instrument will bear a donor inscription in their honor and will serve as a lasting symbol of harmony between generosity and aspiration.
The Boylands’ contribution is not just an investment in instruments—it is an anthem of hope, opportunity, and excellence for the entire Lane College community.