Tri-C Westshore Campus Celebrates Dedication of Student Food Pantry
Donors Ann and Lou Frangos continue support for student success
WESTLAKE — Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) gathered with its community partners for the dedication of the student food Pantry at the Westshore Campus on Nov. 7. The College recognized and celebrated Ann and Lou Frangos, who extended their commitment to the Pantry to help education come first for Tri-C students.
The event featured remarks from donor Ann Frangos, Tri-C President Michael A. Baston, J.D., Ed.D., and Westshore Campus President Scott Latiolais, Ed.D. Ann Frangos has served on the Tri-C Board of Trustees for the past six years.
Hunger remains a fundamental barrier to educational access and completion for a significant number of Tri-C students. The Pantry ensures students in need have access to food, and essential resources in an open, welcoming space.
"I was the first in my family to complete college. Without financial support, I would not have been able to do so," Ann Frangos said. "Today's students face more challenges than just financial — from housing insecurity and transportation challenges to food insecurity and more. Giving back in a way that ensures young people have access to nourishing meals — even in a small way — was something we knew we wanted to do. The Tri-C Food Pantry fills a critical need for students, and we're proud to help.
"We hope students can focus on their education without the added worry of where their next meal will come from. If our support helps even a few of them stay in school, succeed and move forward with confidence, then we'll have made a difference."
The Frangos' gift supports the Cuyahoga Community College Foundation's efforts to ensure each campus has adequate, accessible resources to address student food insecurity. Total commitments to meet this need have surpassed $3 million to support operations, capital and sustainability goals.
"Many factors prevent our students from completing their studies and achieving their education, but hunger is a significant one," Baston said. "More than 60% of Tri-C students who are at high risk for dropping out told us they often go hungry. It is our job to ensure our most vulnerable students have access to essential resources, including food and financial support."
Pantries on all four Tri-C campuses have been renovated within the last four years as welcoming spaces where students can receive additional support. Pantry managers can connect students to Tri-C's Project GO!, which offers resources in five areas: housing, food, health care, child care and utilities. Project GO! works with agencies such as the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, Ohio Benefit Bank and United Way of Greater Cleveland to connect students with the help they need.
The Greater Cleveland Food Bank provides fresh and nonperishable food items for the Pantry.
"No community, including ours at Westshore, is exempt from food insecurity, and we are grateful for the support and leadership from Ann and Lou on this deeply personal cause," Latiolais said. "This Pantry is more than a resource — it's a reflection of our shared commitment to removing barriers and building a culture of connection at the Westshore Campus."
The Pantry is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on the first floor of the Liberal Arts and Technology building. Students can visit once per week.
Visit tri-c.edu/thepantry for more information.
November 10, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: Anthony Moujaes, 216-987-3068 or anthony.moujaes@tri-c.edu