Philip R. Beuth, `54 has pledged a $1 million gift to support the expansion and renovation of Union's Schaffer Library, the largest gift from an individual in support of the library thus far. “I want my gift to encourage my classmates and other members of the College community to contribute significantly to the College as well. 1 personally believe that when one does well, there is a following obligation to do good. Union was there when I needed help, and I've always felt indebted to the college.”
“Phil's gift will have a dramatic impact on the success of our new library and all of us at Union are deeply grateful for his generous vision for the College,” said Dan West, Vice President of College Relations.
“I feel a special affinity to people who encouraged me… people like the late Dean Huntley.. he helped me to get through. And I give my gift in memory of Harold Olsen, Sr., who was the father of my best pal at Union, Hal Olsen, Jr. `54. Mr. Olsen wouldn't let me even consider another college, although I couldn't afford Union. He introduced me to Frank Bailey, who provided me with a scholarship. God willing, I intend to continue to give to Union.”
After 40 years with Capital Cities Communications in various capacities, Beuth retired in 1995 as President of CapCities/ABC's “Good Morning America.” Phil remains active at ABC as a consultant, and recently started Broadcast Consultants International, his own company. In addition, he serves as a board member of UNICEF and DIFFA (Design Industry Foundation Fighting AIDS) in New York. He and his wife Mary also have a new venture, building oceanfront villas and condos on St. Maarten in the Caribbean. They live in New York City and Putnam Valley.