A Return to Campus 40 Years Later Sparks Newfound Commitment

When Paula Chandoha ’69 revised her will in 2016, she knew that she wanted to include an endowed gift designated toward scholarship aid to her alma mater, Endicott College.

Chandoha had spent 40 years away from the Nest after graduating with her Associate in Science, but after returning for Reunion Weekend in 2009, she was compelled by how far the College had come and all that it was doing to support its students—sparking her interest to get involved.

“While attending the clambake lunch during Reunion Weekend, I heard (former President) Dr. (Richard E.) Wylie speak of the the Emergency Scholarship Fund he created to help Endicott students with sudden financial shortfalls. I knew I wanted to be part of the Endicott community again because of this distinct core value: Endicott cares for the well-being of its students,” says Chandoha.

Chandoha shares that a memorable part of her Endicott education was just that—the faculty and staff who constantly supported the growth of her academic work and personal well-being.

While serving on the Alumni Council from 2010 to 2018, Chandoha says that she experienced firsthand Endicott’s commitment to fiscal responsibility in how it handles its endowment and financial aid. In recent years, she has made modest contributions to the Emergency Scholarship Fund, and has been touched by how a small amount can make a difference to an Endicott student experiencing an unexpected financial hardship.

“As an alumna from the Class of 1969, I remember Endicott as a two-year, women’s college. Now, in 2019, I am inspired by the many opportunities offered in the co-educational, four-year curriculum with athletic programs,” says Chandoha. “I respect Endicott’s continued commitment to the education and personal growth of all its students and for providing a positive college experience.”

Formerly, a scientific photographer at Harvard’s Museum of Comparative Zoology, Chandoha draws on her diverse photojournalist experience, from textbook illustration for publishers such as Houghton Mifflin to travel photography in Africa, to capture and create photo stories. Currently, she is writing and photographing for a new book, My Dog, Reaux, and specializes in family portraits on location, noting that she loves to photograph families as they grow.

Chandoha’s relationship with Endicott will continue to grow this June as she returns to campus to celebrate her 50th class reunion during Reunion Weekend 2019.

If you are interested in learning more about making a planned gift to Endicott College, please contact David Vigneron, vice president for institutional advancement, at dvignero@endicott.edu or at 978-232-2376.