Alfred “Al” McGee, Prep’64, ’68, G’71 and Irene “Renie” Shea McGee G’71

Assumption and the Assumptionists have always been a part of my life. I am so grateful for the encouragement and support I have received over the years.

I grew up in low-income housing in New York City. When I was twelve, I attended a church operated by the Assumptionists and played on their neighborhood softball team. There, I met the late Brother JT McHugh, A.A. He had grown up in the same neighborhood as I did. With that bond, we became lifelong friends.

A year later, I was invited to take the entrance exam for Assumption Prep and later learned that I received a partial scholarship. From there my life was completely changed. Upon graduation I continued my education at Assumption College (now University) but after a less than stellar academic start, I took a year off to grow up. When I returned, I was a more focused and diligent student.

Just before graduation my advisor suggested that I apply to Assumption’s new graduate program in Rehabilitation Counseling. I did so and received a full federal traineeship for my M.A. and C.A.S. degrees. I returned to New York and had a wonderful and fulfilling career working with people with disabilities.

Throughout my time at Assumption Prep and the College, there were numerous faculty who helped me find my way. While their academic leadership was important, what was even more important was their mentorship in living a good, ethical life and serving others. I remember long conversations in Taylor Dining Hall or at Zips, the snack bar under the Laska Gym. Those conversations led me to a career and a life of helping make a positive impact on others.

I met my wife, Renie, at Assumption where she received her M.A. in guidance and psychology and went on to have a long and rewarding career as a high school teacher. We were married in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit on Assumption’s campus and recently celebrated our 52nd anniversary.

We have always supported Assumption and think it is vital that alumni continue to support the school and its students. Assumption was more than a school for us. It was, and is, a part of our family. Renie and I wanted to pay it forward to show our gratitude for all Assumption has done for us. Accordingly, we have decided to not only remember our children and grandchildren in our estate plans but our Assumption family as well.

—Alfred “Al” McGee, Prep’64, ’68, G’71

To learn more about how you can show your appreciation for Assumption through a gift in your will or estate plan, contact Melanie Demarais at 508-767-7332 or demarais@assumption.edu today.