Nancy ’55 and Chick ’54 Hungerford were both inspired to attend Springfield College because of influential alumni who worked in their respective high schools. After meeting on campus, falling in love, and spending the rest of their lives together, they are able to reflect on how impactful Springfield College has been.

After unexpectedly being in a position to make a gift, the Hungerfords decided to give back to their alma mater in a way they hope will inspire others to make the same decision when choosing a college.

“Our education at Springfield College was one of the reasons we were successful and able to teach and coach,” Chick said. 

After talking with the Office of Development staff about different ways to support the College, Chick and Nancy decided to create the Nancy Eckman ’55 and Charles Willson ’54 Hungerford Endowed Scholarship Fund. Additionally, they plan to add gifts to the scholarship in the coming years to grow the endowment.

“We’ve always felt that education is so important for young people and the cost of college is certainly going up. So we can give students an opportunity to attend Springfield College who may not have another opportunity because of their finances,” said Nancy.

      In fact, the Hungerfords were so thrilled at the idea of creating an endowment that will continue to support students into perpetuity, they amended their estate plans. Now, their bequest to the College will be directed toward their scholarship. 

    “The young people coming in will hopefully enjoy Springfield College as much as we did, get a great education, and make great friends,” said Nancy.

     “We want Springfield College to continue to make its students successful in their professions,” Chick added.

      The scholarship will be given to a student or students who have demonstrated a need for financial assistance and who exhibit a strong academic profile. Preference will be given to students who show an interest in the fields of education, health, or fitness.

If you are inspired by Nancy and Chick’s story and would like to learn more about how you can leave a legacy at Springfield College, please contact Bonnie J. Cox, G’88, director of planned giving/major gifts officer, at (413) 748-3736 or bcox@springfield.edu