Geoff Jackson ’91 grew up hearing about the value of a college education. It was important to both of their parents—their father, a first-generation college student who grew up during the Great Depression, and their mother, an adjunct professor at Arcadia University.
Together, his parents served on boards of many local colleges and established the Fourjay Foundation, which focuses on philanthropy in education, healthcare, and human service.
It’s a legacy that was celebrated on Friday, May 4, with the dedication of the Admissions building addition known as the Fourjay Welcome Center.
“Thanks to Geoff’s financial support and the Vesta Fund, we are dedicating our Fourjay Welcome Center in honor and in loving memory of Eugene and Marie-Louise Jackson,” said Gettysburg College President Janet Morgan Riggs ’77.
“With this spectacular new facility, we will welcome prospective families to Gettysburg College from across the nation and around the world—prospective students and their parents who want the most for their children and want to provide them with an exceptional liberal arts education,” Riggs continued.
The legacy of Geoff’s parents was not the only one celebrated at this event, as each space—the Fourjay Welcome Center, the Chamberlin Room, and the Brenneman Room—were all dedicated in honor and memory of the parents of the Gettysburgians who provided generous donations to support their construction.
The Chamberlin Room—a spacious reception room that can seat up to 60 people and includes an interactive video wall—was made possible by a gift from Bruce Chamberlin’86 in honor and memory of his parents, Robert W. and Betsy S. Chamberlin P’86.
The Brenneman Room, a reception room in the original Eisenhower House, was made possible by a gift from James H. ’60 and Mary Jane C. ’60 Brenneman, P’84, P’87, in honor and memory of Lavern H. Brenneman ’36.
“With the Fourjay Welcome Center, our pride in Gettysburg College is evident,” said Director of Admissions Gail Sweezey. “It is a space where we can graciously invite our visitors to feel welcome and comfortable; and it allows staff to utilize the latest technology to tell the Gettysburg College story each and every day. We believe this new campus gateway sets the perfect tone for the future, while we remember the important essence of our historical past."
The dedication took place in the Fourjay Welcome Center. Attendees were welcomed by Chair of the Board of Trustees James Chemel ’71, followed by remarks from Riggs, Jackson, and Sweezey.
“For today’s students and their families, the Fourjay Welcome Center is the first stop on their path to a Gettysburg education,” said Chemel. “And that’s something we’re all really proud of.”
Following the remarks, attendees enjoyed light refreshments on the patio adjoining the Chamberlin Room, and building tours departed from the Art Gallery Waiting Room.
View photos of the Admissions Building and other campus enhancements below or on Flickr.
