Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — A longtime faculty member’s legacy for promoting physical fitness and higher education will live on at the University of Maine at Presque Isle, thanks to a generous gift left to the University following her death last fall. Frugality was one of the late Caroline Gentile’s most notable qualities.
Known for her propensity for keeping things long past what others might think of as a normal lifespan, Ms. Gentile, as she was known on campus, knew the value of a dollar and used money wisely. A worn pair of her tennis shoes were bronzed and will be placed in a display case at Gentile Hall, as a reminder of the woman so many looked up to with respect.
When plans were being put together about five years ago for a new physical education complex at the University, the longtime educator stepped forward with $500,000 to be used for the project. Gentile Hall was later named after her, in recognition of her contributions — both from an educational perspective and monetarily.
Gentile’s generosity continued even after her death.
“Caroline joined the University in 1946 and remains, 63 years later, an essential part of the institution. Her passing last year deprived us of her presence but her legacy lives on with her gift today of $600,000,” said UMPI President Don Zillman at a ceremony at Gentile Hall May 8.
The gift brings Gentile’s total contribution to the campus to $1.1 million. Zillman said he was delighted Gentile was able to “see her lead gift put to use while she was alive.”
The two donations make this the largest gift by a private door to a university in Aroostook County, according to Zillman.
“Caroline always asked, ‘What more can I do for the University?’ The additional gift will be spent in a variety of ways,” said Zillman.
Larry Shaw, president of the Foundation of the University of Presque Isle, said Gentile started a wellness concern that, “got going on something that became so important to all of us. As a member of the Foundation, I’m quite excited with what we’ll be able to do in the future.”
Shaw indicated the donation should earn about $25,000 annually — interest that will be used for scholarships, distinguished lecturers, research, campus upgrades (primarily to the physical education complex) and other purposes.
“I think the real beauty is Caroline’s story is a great inspiration and will be able to be told for many generations to come,” said Shaw.
Charlie Bonin, vice president of administration and finance, said the University has entered into a contract for installation of a pool cover and will be looking at other ways to improve energy efficiency. Upgrades to fitness equipment at the complex is also planned.
“I know Caroline is here in spirit,” said Bonin.
The facility that carries her name serves as a daily reminder of Gentile’s dedication to the campus. For nearly six decades she promoted physical wellness. Though she’s gone, her legacy will live on.
“What a privilege it is to walk up this path to the facility that bear’s her name each morning,” said Dick Gardiner, director of Gentile Hall. “Physical education is important for children and adults to lead healthy lifestyles. Her gift will result in lasting memories.”
Former State Rep. Mabel Desmond was the last to speak at the event, recalling a much younger Gentile.
“I came in 1946 (to the campus) when Caroline was new also. I remember her as a much younger version of her image here on the wall,” said Desmond. “She was the one who started the program that put us (the University and Presque Isle) on the map.”
