Joseph Williams G'66

“College education is so expensive that many young people who aspire to careers in therapeutic recreation services can’t afford it. Yet, tomorrow’s world needs professionals in this field. There’s a growing population of people with disabilities who can be habilitated or rehabilitated that would benefit from their help, as well as a rising number of retirees with greater time for leisure activities, and many others. In this, I’ve found an opportunity to fulfill my longtime desire to give back to Springfield College, to help students with financial needs like I had, and to promote diversity in my field.

My planned gift will fund an annual scholarship for a senior undergraduate or second-year graduate student in Recreation Management-Therapeutic Recreation Services and Child Life Option with at least a 3.0 GPA and who requires financial assistance. It will be primarily for African-Americans, but not exclusively. Choosing Springfield College for this scholarship was an easy decision. It has one of the best reputations in this field in the world, and it attracts students dedicated to human service. The College is well managed, so I’m confident that my gifts will be overseen with care.”

Joseph Williams is a retired certified therapeutic recreation specialist living in Sweden. He spent his 28-year career as an educator in his field, primarily in the State of Connecticut university system. He was also a lecturer and consultant and conducted programs at universities, health care facilities, organizations, and community-based programs in the United States and Sweden.

The 1885 Society recognizes members of the Springfield College community who have included the College in their planned charitable gifts or their will.