News
Community unites to support one of its own
By Dan Snyder ’17
May 1, 2015
For over 23 years, Marge Petteys has brightened the days of all who enter and exit Soper Commons Dining Hall, and recently the Hamilton community showed Marge that same kind of support. After her husband’s failing health led to some financial concerns, 844 people raised $25,875 over six days on the crowd funding website GoFundMe.
Director of Diversity and Inclusion Amit Taneja set up the fundraising page, which quickly passed the initial goal of $5,000. According to Taneja, the goal was met in a matter of four hours. More recently, the 2003 men’s soccer team donated $3,000 with a note that reads, “Thanks for always caring for us, Marge, and for making us smile! Perry Nizzi’s boys and the Alpha Delta Phi will always love ya!” Additionally, there were a number of donations well over $100.
Taneja shared that when the goal was exceeded, he drove to Marge’s home to share the good news and warm wishes that had been sent her way. Upon receiving the news, Marge responded, “This is what love is.” Taneja said, “For each person [who shared a message], Marge had a particular memory or anecdote to share,” adding, “I was so touched and impressed that she knew so much about the alumni, many of whom had graduated years ago.”
Hamilton community members expressed their support for Marge in the comments section of the fundraising page. Heather Baer ’00 wrote, “Marge, prayers for peace and comfort—all of your “children” are sending our best wishes.” Ivy Rollins Milliken ’01 wrote, “Marge, you are the smile on the Hill. Sending you love, prayers, and good thoughts. May the contributions of this community ease your burdens and remind you how you have touched us. I miss your warm hugs and I think of you often. Best wishes.” Emily Delbridge ’13 simply wrote, “Please know how special you are to all of us.”
Describing the fundraiser, Taneja said, “This is a shining moment for the Hamilton community to come together and support one of our most beloved community members.” Taneja has also organized the sending of cards to Marge to show her support in a more personal form. “I was struck by the breadth of people who contributed—from current students to alumni, faculty, staff, trustees, and even parents of former students. Many of the folks not only shared encouraging messages, but thanked Marge for being their mom-on-the-hill” he commented.
In an update on the fundraising page, Taneja wrote “I saw two different cards that Hamilton students had made for Herb, Marge’s husband. These students had never met Herb, but they care for him because Marge cares for us all. That is who she is.”
College Chaplain Jeff McArn reiterated Taneja’s sentiments, saying, “The amazing response to her financial situation is stunning. I’m sure Marge is moved to tears by the love shown to her by students, their parents, alums, faculty & staff. It’s a testament to the Hamilton Community to rally around her in this moment of crisis and loss.”
The outpouring of support is a testament to the kind of person Marge is and the care she has shown for Hamilton students during her 23 years on the Hill. McArn also said, “I think this outpouring is a living testimony to how much Marge shared her love with such a wide cross-section of our campus community. If you’ve ever received a hug from Marge—and I know thousands of people have over the years—you know her heart is the real deal.” Taneja added, “This support is testament of the love that Marge has given to the Hamilton community, and that love is coming back to her.”
McArn led the funeral for Marge’s husband, Herb, on April 28. People can visit the GoFundMe page for more information on sending cards to Marge. The page, entitled “Marge from Commons Needs Our Help!” will be open until Graduation and those able are encouraged to donate.