The Adams County Community Foundation is proud to announce the heartwarming continuation of a legacy that deeply resonates with the spirit of giving and education in our community.
In 2021, the Adams County Community Foundation introduced the Charles Hugh McGovney Scholarship Fund and the Hugh and Sue McGovney Unrestricted Fund, thanks to the generous vision of Sue McGovney. Sue, alongside her late husband Hugh, shared a profound belief in the transformative power of education and the enduring importance of giving back to one’s community.
Hugh McGovney’s journey was deeply rooted in the fabric of Adams County. Born and raised in the area, he was inspired by the values instilled by his parents – his father serving as a postmaster and his mother as a teacher. Hugh’s appreciation for education was profound, reflecting his upbringing and his own experiences.
After graduating from the University of Cincinnati College of Pharmacy, Hugh embarked on a remarkable 50-year career as a pharmacist, dedicated to serving the community through his work with Blake Pharmacy in West Union and Manchester. His commitment to his profession mirrored his commitment to Adams County – steadfast, unwavering, and deeply rooted in a sense of duty and service.
Sue’s dedication to education stemmed from her 35-year career as a teacher, where she saw the immense potential in her students, even envisioning future Presidents among them. She shared, “My heart broke for them because I knew that their families couldn’t afford for the students to further their education either by college or trade.”
After Hugh’s passing in 2018, Sue honored his memory by fulfilling their shared dream. She reached out to the Adams County Community Foundation, recognizing their commitment to serving our community. Sue reflected, “The foundation was a large help and is made up of great people who care about the community.”
With the Foundation’s support, Sue established the McGovney Endowment Funds, ensuring their legacy would forever benefit the Adams County area. “These two new endowment funds establish a legacy for Hugh and Sue McGovney and will give back to Adams County forever,” said Kent Gulley, a trustee with the Foundation.
Through Sue’s generosity, six scholarships have already been awarded, touching the lives of deserving students pursuing higher education. It’s a testament to the McGovneys’ enduring legacy that these scholarships align with the educational paths Sue and Hugh once walked themselves – one supporting a student at the University of Cincinnati, where Hugh McGovney graduated, and the other aiding a student at Morehead State University, Sue’s alma mater.
Learning of these scholarships, Sue was moved to tears, knowing that their legacy continues to inspire and empower future generations. She entrusted the Foundation with the selection process, acknowledging their commitment to excellence and equity. Sue expressed, “When I learned of this, I began to cry.”
The McGovney Endowment Funds represent more than just financial support; they symbolize the love, dedication, and belief in the potential of every individual in our community. Sue’s unwavering commitment to honoring her husband’s memory and enriching the lives of Adams County residents underscores the profound impact individuals can make when they give back.
For those interested in contributing to the McGovney Endowment Funds or learning more about the Adams County Community Foundation’s initiatives, please visit our website at accfo.org or contact us at (937) 544-8659.
