2021 Lycoming College Summer Magazine

The GIFT OF Charles L. Getchell, Ph.D., joined the Lycoming faculty in 1967. For more than two decades, he taught mathematics and appreciated the College’s ability to foster a love of learning through experience, intuition, and analysis. Through the years, Getchell has graciously established three charitable gift annuities and in 2016 donated real estate to the College. Additionally, he has made several gifts from his IRA as qualified charitable distributions. His meaningful philanthropy in support of the College has included loyal, annual support of the Lycoming Fund and the establishment of The Joan C. and Charles L. Getchell Endowed Scholarship, which is awarded to students who perform extensive volunteer work, preferably in health care. Music has always been dear to him. He can still be heard singing alongside the Lycoming College Choir, and he enjoys playing the organ. His establishment of The Getchell Piano Lab, the installation of a donated organ in Clarke Chapel, and the donation of several keyboard and orchestral instruments have directly benefitted students in Lycoming’s music program. “From the moment I first set foot on campus, I was impressed with Lycoming’s strong ties to the community, especially the musical and theatrical performances open to and well supported by the public,” shared Getchell. “Many community members, myself included, have had the opportunity to perform alongside students in such groups as the Williamsport Chamber Choir and Orchestra and the Lycoming College and Community Orchestra. Our music education students also have had a profound impact on area schools.” To commemorate his 80th birthday, he hosted a musical celebration on campus with several guest performers which was free and open to the Williamsport community. He has a passion for sharing the gift of music, so it came as no surprise when he recently converted The Getchell Music Fund to a leadership gift in support of the new music facility. “I’ve had the opportunity to experience firsthand the rehearsal space limitations of Clarke Chapel. Although the Mary Lindsay Welch Honors Hall provides a fine space for smaller ensembles, its physical separation from the rest of the music department presents its own challenges,” said Getchell. “I was delighted with the decision to build an office, practice, and rehearsal facility adjacent to this building.” To learn more about including Lycoming College in your estate planning, contact Robb Dietrich, senior director of major and planned gifts, at dietrich@lycoming.edu or 570-321-4401. MUSIC I was impressed with Lycoming’s strong ties to the community