Dean George Shepard estate enriches SUNY Orange scholarship endowment

Donation of $751,000 from former dean’s estate will deliver student scholarships for years to come MIDDLETOWN — During his 32-year tenure at SUNY Orange, most of which included his role as the school’s first and only dean of students, George Shepard left an indelible imprint on the college that is still felt today, but Shepard assured his legacy will last well into the future by leaving a sizeable donation in his estate to support future student scholarships at SUNY Orange. During a Friday afternoon memorial service for Shepard, who died in January at the age of 92, the college ceremoniously accepted a donation of $751,000 from Shepard’s attorney Shawn O’Connor, who recently completed the settlement of his client’s estate. Shepard had included the college in his estate planning and had indicated his desire that the money be used to establish a series of student scholarships. Thanks to the late dean’s generosity, his gift will allow the college to issue approximately 10 to 15 new scholarships annually. The donation is among the largest ever received by the college, and is the largest single scholarship contribution on record at SUNY Orange. “Orange County Community College already owed George Shepard a sizeable debt of gratitude for his long tenure here, his tireless support of our students and his visionary leadership that created policies and procedures that remain in place today,” said Dr. William Richards, SUNY Orange president. “We always knew that George loved the College, and his dedication to our students was unparalleled. But this wonderful donation will impact students at SUNY Orange forever.” Shepard enjoyed a remarkable 32-year career after having joined the staff in 1951 when the college had fewer than 200 students and little in the way of student activities. He created a comprehensive student personnel and co-curricular program that had few equals in New York State. Beyond that, he demonstrated diverse talents and leadership on many college fronts. Annually, SUNY Orange issues approximately 175 scholarships to incoming, returning and graduating students. For more information on the SUNY Orange Foundation or to contribute to the George F. Shepard Scholarship Fund, contact Vinnie Cazzetta at 845-341-4726.