News

Barrett-Jackson Auction Proceeds Benefit Auto Restoration Program

posted Feb 15, 2006 in ACADEMICS

Representatives from McPherson College’s Auto Restoration program attended the 35th annual Barrett-Jackson Auction January 14-22, 2006. Long considered to be the ultimate collector car auction and exposition, this year’s event also saw many classic and special interest vehicles pass over the auction block.

• View Photo Gallery • Auction Video

McPherson College’s auto restoration program was represented at this year’s auction by a 1949 Chrysler Royal Coupe which sold on Tuesday, January 17th for $11,000. Restoration work was performed by students enrolled in the automotive restoration program.

"I am very pleased about what the car sold for. The current market value of that particular car is between $8,000 and $11,000 so it is great that the car sold for the higher end," Jonathan Klinger, director of automotive restoration development, said.

In addition to other McPherson College representatives, four students traveled to Scottsdale as ambassadors to McPherson College: Matthew Foss, sr., Bolivia, N.C.; Brian Martin, sr., Buhler, Kan.; James Michael Knight, sr. Galva, Kan.; and Nicholas van Buren, jr. Annandale, Va.

Klinger expressed appreciation for the support received from Barrett-Jackson. "Craig Jackson, president of Barrett-Jackson Auction Company and member of the Automotive Restoration Advisory Board, continues to be very supportive of our automotive restoration program. Two years ago they donated $100,000 to endow two Automotive Restoration scholarships in memory of his late father and brother, Russ and Brian Jackson. He also supports us by waiving any of the fees associated with his world-famous auction such as the booth space fee, consignment fees, and the buyer’s commission."

McPherson College's automotive restoration program is recognized internationally for the excellent preparation it provides students interested in this rewarding field. The only four-year degree program in the U.S., the primary goal of the program is to teach the art of automotive restoration at its best. Internship opportunities with restoration facilities and museums around the world consistently provide professional work settings for students to gain experience and to demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have acquired while enrolled in the program.

For additional information, please contact Jonathan Klinger at (620) 241-0742, ext. 1254.