“My dad was treasurer of the University of Richmond, and I grew up on that campus,” Wheeler recalls. “This was when U of R was strapped for money, and every cent had to be accounted for. I saw how a strong endowment could transform a school into one of the best universities in the country.
“When it came time for me to choose a college, I considered three: Hampden-Sydney, Davidson, and Wake Forest. Wake Forest, at that time, was Baptist, and dancing was not permitted on campus. Once I learned that bit of information, I scratched Wake off my list.
“I really hoped to play Division I football, but it didn’t take me long to realize that Davidson’s athletic program was beyond my capabilities. I had several high school buddies who were bound for Hampden-Sydney. My neighbor, McGuire Boyd’64, sang its praises, and it seemed like a good fit. I don’t think I even realized at the time what a good fit it would be!
“My football career ended with a torn knee the first week of practice, but by then I was a Tiger at heart. I wasn’t a scholar, but I really appreciated the small classes, loved history with Dr. Boyd Coyner and got extra help I needed from professors like Dr. T. E. Gilmer in the physics department. Beyond the classroom, lasting friendships have enriched my years, and maybe most importantly, Hampden-Sydney’s Honor Code and emphasis on integrity have influenced every aspect of my life and career.”
Wheeler received his MBA from the Wharton School of Finance, worked as a general contractor at the newly developed Wintergreen Resort, and then served as a financial advisor and senior vice president at Scott & Stringfellow, Inc. in Richmond for 36 years. He introduced several Hampden-Sydney students to the investment field and mentored them as they began jobs in finance and brokerage.
Over the years, Chuck and his wife, Nancy, have consistently given back to Hampden-Sydney through the annual fund, support for athletics, contributions to scholarships and for many years, through the Society of Founders.
Chuck and Nancy recently established a gift annuity, through which they will receive income during their lifetimes with remaining funds going to Hampden-Sydney’s endowment. As Chuck explains, “Our gift included significantly appreciated stock for which neither Hampden-Sydney nor we paid long term capital gains. In exchange, Nancy and I receive a fixed rate income for the rest of our lives. At our deaths, the gift goes entirely to Hampden-Sydney.
“The college staff was extremely helpful in setting this up, and we feel this gift plan meets two objectives at once. It fits our financial goals during retirement and subsequently will benefit Hampden-Sydney’s endowment.
“One of my favorite sayings,” Chuck continues, “is grow or die. That’s true of institutions as well as individuals. Nancy and I hope this gift will help Hampden-Sydney continue to grow and to meet the needs of its students, forming good citizens in an increasingly complex world.”
Your gift supports the Tiger legacy and positions the College for another century of forming good men and good citizens.
For further assistance, please contact:
Office of Gift & Estate Planning
(434) 223-6780
giftplanning@hsc.edu