Hall-of-Fame athlete displays true passion for his time at SHU.
George Germann, Sr., '65/MA '67, entered the University in the fall of 1961 on an athletic scholarship for track and field. He joined as a mathematics major among 150 other hopeful math majors. In 1965, he was one of ten math majors remaining. George understood the call to persevere and run the entire race - both in life and on the track.
“As a former student-athlete, I experienced the value of discipline, like balancing time among academics, athletics, and social activities,” Germann said.
George also received a master's degree from Seton Hall. Dr. Richard Gabriel, Director of the Center for Computer and Information Sciences, hired him as an assistant professor. In the early '70s, George was appointed Director.
During his tenure, George was responsible for automating the University's IT, Administrative, and Academic Services. He also helped create the Computer Science degree program. This allowed him to enter the business world as an IT executive.
He served on the University Advisory Committee and was Chair of the Athletic Hall of Fame Committee. George has a rich history with Seton Hall and deep admiration for his degree and alma mater. He always remembered where he came from and how he made his way to South Orange.
“Given that my parents were not wealthy, I would not have been able to afford college in 1961. I was the first in my family to acquire a college degree,” Germann said. “The full scholarship I received allowed me to obtain a university education and to excel nationally and internationally in track and field.”
The individuals he met at Seton Hall, including coaches, faculty, and staff, also left an imprint on George.
“Teachers like Dr. Richard Gabriel inspired me to use IT to innovate and improve organizations where I was employed. My track and field coach, John Gibson, and President Monsignor Robert Sheeran were also impactful during my time at Seton Hall.”
These experiences, relationships, and accomplishments inspired George to give back to the University through a planned gift.
“I simply want to give back to the University for all it has given me.”
When it came time to join the Benjamin Savage Society, George was inspired to do so by Richie Regan. George and his wife, Angela, thought about it and decided to designate in their will support for future students in the College of Nursing. With this intention, they will create endless opportunities for future Pirates.
George was asked what he would like to accomplish with his gift and the answer was simple.
“That Seton Hall University continues to remain as a valued Catholic university providing Catholic-inspired values, and objective and balanced educations to the students who attend.”
At a Glance: Bequests
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