Lawrence and Martha Johnson stand in front of the Doak House on the Hiwassee College campus.  The Johnson’s recently made a generous donation that is going toward its restoration.

Members of the Hiwassee College alumni, Lawrence Johnson, Class of 1958 and his wife, Dr. Martha Russell Johnson, Class of 1958, along with their daughter, Terry Johnson Sharpe, Class of 1976, are underwriting the restoration of the Doak House museum building on campus.  This charming cottage, located at the front entrance to the college, is said by many to be a room from the original Doak Building.  Named for the first president of Hiwassee College, Robert Ebenezer Doak, the “little brick house” currently houses photos and documents important to the history of the institution.

Mr. Johnson is purchasing the materials and will do some of the renovation work himself.  Other updates, including repairs to the roof of the 100-year-old building are being managed by contractors who specialize in those tasks.  President Robin J. Tricoli said, “Our loyal alumni continue to be wonderful partners as we implement the plan to reinvigorate the college and restore several of the buildings that are so recognizable to those who have studied and worked at Hiwassee College.  We are most grateful to the Johnson family for this contribution of time, talent, and treasure.”