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<\/p>\nPatrick Weschler’s father was there 100 years ago when the cornerstone was laid at Mercyhurst University’s Old Main building.<\/p>\n
Weschler wants to ensure the Erie school lasts for many more years. The retired attorney recently donated $1 million to Mercyhurst at a time when the school is facing serious financial and enrollment challenges.<\/p>\n
“Mercyhurst has been part of my family’s story for as long as I can remember,” Weschler said in a news release. “My father helped celebrate the founding of this institution, my aunt devoted her life to its students, and Mercyhurst played a defining role in my own journey.”<\/p>\n
Weschler’s father, Frank, served as a page for Erie Catholic Bishop John Mark Gannon during the cornerstone ceremony at Mercyhurst in 1925. His aunt, Sister Mary Charles Weschler, taught at Mercyhurst from 1946 to 1975.<\/p>\n
Weschler attended Mercyhurst, graduating in 1978 before attending law school at the University of Virginia. He recently completed a 35-year career as a partner at an Akron, Ohio, law firm.<\/p>\n
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Patrick Weschler, a 1978 Mercyhurst University alumnus and longtime trustee, has donated $1 million to his alma mater. It is one of the largest donations in the university’s recent history.<\/p>\n
The $1 million donation is the largest made since 2019, Mercyhurst officials said.<\/p>\n
Donation to be used on academics, campus improvements<\/p>\n
Mercyhurst officials said the donation will be used to invest in projects that give the school the best chance for long-term success, including campus improvements, student experiences and “academic excellence.”<\/p>\n
“The flexibility of the gift allows university leadership to direct resources where they are needed most and where they can create the greatest benefit for current and future students,” Mercyhurst University spokesman David Raymond said in an email.<\/p>\n
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Mercyhurst’s Old Main building is shown during its construction in 1926.<\/p>\n
The gift comes less than five months after school officials announced potential cuts<\/a> as part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure the school’s programs align with student interests, enrollment realities and workforce needs.<\/p>\n “Pat’s generosity reflects not only a remarkable commitment to Mercyhurst, but also a deep belief in our future,” Mercyhurst President Kathleen Getz said in the news release. “His gift will help ensure that the opportunities, values, and transformative experiences that have defined Mercyhurst for generations continue to flourish well into our second century. We are profoundly grateful for his leadership and support.”<\/p>\n Contact David Bruce at\u00a0dbruce@timesnews.com<\/a>\u00a0or by calling 814-870-1736.<\/p>\n