Alumnus Bequeaths $1.7 Million

Suffolk University has received a $1.7 million gift from the estate of alumnus George Nelson Torrey, BSBA'56, MAE'57.  

It is the largest single cash gift to an endowed fund in the University's history.

Torrey, who died in October 2014, was a proud Suffolk alumnus who went on to receive his EdD from Boston University and served as professor of education at Salem State College for 45 years, retiring as professor emeritus.

The gift will be added to the George Nelson Torrey Endowed Scholarship in the College of Arts & Sciences for graduate students studying education.

"We are deeply grateful for this generous bequest," said President Marisa Kelly. "Through his leadership and philanthropy, this and future generations of Suffolk students will know Dr. Torrey's dedication to his alma mater and gain access to the same educational opportunity at Suffolk that influenced him throughout his life."  

Torrey's relationship with Suffolk spanned decades. He was president and vice-president of Suffolk's General Alumni Association; served as marshal for the University's 1981 Commencement exercises; and attended many events over the years including scholarship dinners, alumni weekends, and Commencement Eve Summa dinners.

A resident of Melrose, Massachusetts, and a U.S. Army Veteran, Torrey was an active member of his community, serving on several professional organizations and associations. He was born in Maine and retired to Florida full-time in 2012.