Joyce Wechsler (SUNY Geneseo photo/Keith Walters '11)
Joyce Wechsler, associate professor emerita of education, whose career at SUNY Geneseo spanned almost 30 years, has made a significant gift to endow the Joyce Wechsler and Louise Wechsler Medby Scholarship in honor of her late sister.
The renewable scholarship will provide financial support for Geneseo students who participate in co-curricular activities, including clubs and organizations.
“Professor Wechsler’s devotion to Geneseo has been apparent through the years,” said Geneseo President Denise A. Battles. “She has supported many student program areas across the campus, and we are grateful for this most recent gift, which will allow students to explore their talents in co-curricular activities.”
“It’s important for students to take advantage of opportunities that strengthen their Geneseo experience,” said Wechsler, who currently serves on the board of directors of the Geneseo InterFaith Center. “Plus, providing students with financial support can reduce the pressure of them having to work that extra job.”
Wechsler joined Geneseo in 1969 as a coach in recreation and athletics. She was the first women’s volleyball coach and guided the team to 352 wins in 21 seasons. In 1986, the team won the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Association Championship. She also began the women’s basketball team in 1974, coaching them to 28 wins in their first four seasons.
Wechsler taught health courses in the Ella Cline Shear School of Education before retiring in 1998. In May of that year, she was inducted into the Geneseo Sports Hall of Fame for her outstanding contributions as a long-time coach of the women’s volleyball team.
Today, Wechsler, a Geneseo resident, continues to support the College and community through her many philanthropic and voluntary endeavors.
The endowment was established through the Geneseo Foundation, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation organized for encouraging philanthropic contributions for the benefit of SUNY Geneseo.