The Lorain County Community College Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE)Team closed its used furniture store after a year long hands-on business and learning experience for students.
LCCC President Dr. Roy A. Church signified the store’s grand closing by tying the red ribbon that was cut during the store’s grand opening.
"This has been an amazing journey involving 20 LCCC SIFE students and 18 community members. The students sold over 750 pieces of used office furniture to more than 290 customers. They also recycled 16 tons of steel," said Maria McConnell, professor and SIFE co-advisor.
After several months of preparation, the store officially opened this past January. The students experienced several set-backs in their operation including the fire on the college’s main campus in March which destroyed their remaining inventory. However, donations from the community allowed the store to remain open with an influx of inventory from local businesses.
"This was an excellent opportunity for our students. They energetically accepted this challenge and will take away experiences that will last for a lifetime. I am so proud of our students and their accomplishments," said Claudia Lubaski, assistant professor and SIFE co-advisor. "The SIFE Store was a great learning experience for all of us. I am proud of the success we achieved," said LCCC SIFE President Jason Case.