For George McMurtry and Laura Mosier, supporting the State College Area School District isn’t just philanthropy—it’s personal. Both are proud State High graduates, and all four of their children benefited from the same wide-ranging opportunities that define the district today. As local business owners, they’ve seen firsthand how a strong school system strengthens an entire community.
George and Laura recently made a generous $12,000 gift to the SCASD Education Foundation, designating $1,000 each to 12 different student clubs and organizations. Their intention was simple: to make an impact on programs that shape students’ futures.
“We could have picked 40 worthwhile groups,” George shared. “But we wanted to make a meaningful impact with gifts at a level that will really make a difference.”
Their selections reflect the family’s deep and varied connections to State High. Laura was involved with music while George participated in athletics. Their children explored everything from sports and music to academic clubs and benefitted from programs for students with special needs. George’s son Barrett McMurtry is a 10th grade social studies teacher at State High and is also involved in coaching and faculty advising. That breadth of experience shaped their giving.
“We chose organizations and activities that we have some connection with and that share a common objective of extending into the next stages of life and preparing students for their careers or other long-term involvement,” Laura explained. “We were intentional about these gifts supporting academic and career-oriented programs.”
The couple believe the Education Foundation plays a vital role in ensuring that students have access to enriching opportunities. “The foundation allows so many students to have new opportunities and to take advantage of the school district’s academics and extracurricular programming,” George said.
They point to the Foundation’s wide-ranging impact: educator grants, mental health initiatives, new marching band uniforms, and countless other enhancements that elevate the student experience.
“We’re happy to be part of the long-term impact it has on students and the district,” he said. “We are fortunate as local business owners to be able to give back and grateful that the Foundation offers us the opportunity to do so by partnering with the community for its collective support.”
George and Laura’s gift is a powerful reminder of what happens when alumni, families, and local businesses come together to invest in the next generation. Their generosity not only strengthens today’s programs, it inspires others to join in shaping a bright future for all SCASD students.
Interested in following their lead? Make a one-time or recurring gift online or contact Executive Director Paul Olivett to discuss other giving opportunities.