Gift of Insurance

Education was always a priority in Linda Gatchel's family. From an early age, she was encouraged and expected to study hard in all disciplines. Graduating from Middletown High School, she obtained an undergraduate degree in English from Lebanon Valley College and an MLS degree in Library Science from the University of Pittsburgh.

In 1970, Linda was hired as an assistant professor/circulation librarian for the Ezra Lehman Memorial Library at Shippensburg State College. She retired thirty-four years later in 2004, having spent her time happily cataloging everything other than books. Reflecting on her years of service at the university, she said, "Shippensburg was my professional home for many years. I enjoyed my work and the students immensely. I believe strongly in supporting programs that offer stimulating and challenging curricula."

The Wood Honors Program at Shippensburg University provides a special educational experience for outstanding students with an emphasis on scholarship, leadership, and service. It encourages an atmosphere of creative learning and intellectual exploration. Students also participate in special social, cultural, and community service activities. This aligns closely to Linda's philanthropic inclination, which is why, as her contribution to the current campaign, she has decided to endow a scholarship for the Wood Honors Program and also support the program's discretionary fund by naming the SU Foundation as beneficiary of insurance annuities.

"It gives me pleasure to know that my gift will help attract more highly talented students to the Honors Program through scholarship support and will provide increased opportunities for students in the areas of research, study abroad, and internships."