Family supports life sciences

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A. Sue Weisler

Georgia Gosnell announced a $5 million gift on behalf of her family to create the Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences in the College of Science.

The Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences in the College of Science was dedicated in May.

During his lifetime, Gosnell served as a model of generosity through a commitment of time and resources in support of RIT. Gosnell’s wife, Georgia, continued that legacy by announcing a $5 million deferred commitment to benefit the school, which incorporates the university’s academic programs in biology, bioinformatics, biotechnology and molecular bioscience, and environmental science.

Thomas Gosnell, who died in 2009, served 15 years on RIT’s Board of Trustees and was board chairman from 1987 to 1992. His commitment to the university included significant financial contributions, most notably a $3 million challenge grant that helped expand and enhance facilities for the College of Science. Gosnell Hall, featuring the Center for Excellence in Mathematics, Science and Technology, was dedicated upon its completion in 1998. “My husband’s family has always identified with RIT and I wanted to continue that legacy,” Georgia Gosnell says.

When the gift of $5 million is realized, it will target multiple functions, including renovations and enhancements to classrooms and laboratories in Gosnell Hall. Funds will also be directed in support of faculty recruitment and undergraduate research fellowships.