When Richard “Dick” Bunnell ’49 passed away in 2022, his family established a fund to benefit students named for Dick and his wife Gwen, a longtime SCASD kindergarten teacher. With five generations of State High graduates, the Bunnell family is a true community legacy committed to helping students make the most of their education, inside and outside the classroom. You can be part of their life-changing effort.
During 30+ years on the State College School Board, Dick worked tirelessly for the students, and the community of State College. Gwen taught kindergarten at Corl Street Elementary for more than 25 years after helping to found the preschool program at Grace Lutheran. In May, Gwen was inducted into the Maroon & Gray Society.
Carol Bunnell Grim ’76 explained the inspiration behind choosing extracurricular activities for the fund that honors her parents: “Dad drew us into the meaning of participating in activities we enjoyed, which carried us through our lives, shaped us, and also taught us how to share, learn and grow with others,” she said. “The Foundation is the perfect place for Dad’s hopes for children of all ages to have a chance to try new things, find their talents, lead them into their path for the future, and have fun through learning.”
At the time of Dick’s passing, friends and family contributed to establish the fund. In 2023, proceeds from the Maroon & Gray Society Celebration helped it grow. Now, as part of the Education Foundation’s 10th Anniversary, the fund is one of four priority areas. The Bunnell family hopes more generous donors will be part of shaping this fund so that current and future generations can benefit.
“All activities come with financial costs, so the goal is that funds can support these incredible and life-shaping opportunities so that all students can participate,” Carol shared.
Help ensure that all students can reap the benefits of extracurricular opportunities by making a gift to the Gwen & Richard Bunnell Fund for Extracurricular Activities. Visit the secure online giving page and choose the fund from the campaign dropdown menu.