Dedicated Alumna’s Generous Gift Establishes New Student-Athlete Lounge at CU-Bloomsburg
Posted on July 30, 2024
The Bloomsburg University Foundation and Bloomsburg Athletics are proud to announce the dedication of the Sharon Gettel Student-Athlete Lounge in Nelson Fieldhouse on Bloomsburg's Upper Campus. This honor celebrates the remarkable generosity and lasting impact of Bloomsburg alumna Sharon Gettel ’78 of Harrisburg, Pa, a dedicated supporter and former Bloomsburg student-athlete.
Sharon Gettel, who graduated in 1978 from Bloomsburg State College with a degree in elementary education, has been a stalwart advocate for Bloomsburg students and athletics. A retired educator, Sharon began her career as a teacher and eventually became the principal of the Northern Lebanon School District. During her time at Bloomsburg, Sharon excelled as a student-athlete, playing both tennis and field hockey. In addition to playing sports, Sharon was a member and President of Lambda Alpha Mu sorority, which collaborated with the college on service projects.
Sharon’s contributions extend beyond the athletic field and classroom. In 1987, she was recognized as the State Outstanding Young Educator by the PA Jaycees, and in 1990, she was honored as the Bloomsburg University Young Alumna of the Year. She has also served as a member and Vice President of the Bloomsburg University Alumni Association Board.
Since making her first gift to support Bloomsburg students in 1982, Sharon has consistently demonstrated her commitment to the university. In 2000, she established the Sharon Gettel Field Hockey Scholarship, which has provided significant assistance to student-athletes like herself. Sharon's dedication extends beyond financial support; she has also served on the Bloomsburg University Foundation Board since 2003, making her the Foundation's longest-continuing board member. Her leadership and vision have been instrumental in advancing the Foundation's mission.
Ms. Gettel's most recent gift to name the Sharon Gettel Student-Athlete Lounge underscores her passion for both athletics and education at Bloomsburg. Her generous contribution will provide a dedicated space for student-athletes to study, relax, and connect, further enriching their university experience.
Reflecting on her time at Bloomsburg, Sharon shared, "My experience at Bloomsburg has always been the top. This opportunity was near and dear to my heart - supporting athletics and education here at Bloomsburg."
Dr. Michael McFarland, Director of Athletics at Bloomsburg, expressed his gratitude for Sharon's ongoing support: "Sharon Gettel's unwavering commitment to Bloomsburg Athletics and our student-athletes is truly inspiring. Her generous gift to name the Sharon Gettel Student-Athlete Lounge will have a lasting impact on our athletic community, providing a space that fosters both academic and athletic success."
The Bloomsburg University Foundation and Bloomsburg Athletics extend their deepest appreciation to Sharon Gettel for her continuous dedication and support. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Huskies.