Phil Mead came to College Hill in 1955 from Delmar, N.Y. While pursuing pre-medical studies, he found time to participate in the vibrant musical life on campus, singing in the Choir and playing with the Catatonic 5, Hamilton’s Dixieland jazz band. Phil has continued playing his trombone, including long service with the Alumni All-Stars Jazz Band.
Elected to Phi Beta Kappa, Phil was graduated with honors in 1959, went on to Cornell University’s medical school and obtained his M.D. degree in 1963. Following his internship and residency in obstetrics and gynecology, he served in the Navy and then joined the faculty of the University of Vermont College of Medicine, eventually retiring as chairman emeritus of the department of obstetrics and gynecology. Sons Allen ’88 and David ’90 also graduated from Hamilton.
Phil and Ann Mead completed three deferred payment charitable gift annuities with Hamilton. The income tax charitable contribution deductions saved taxes while employed, and the favorably taxed quarterly payments from these gifts now supplement their retirement income. However, as Phil stated, “The best result of these gifts is the knowledge that we are helping the College that has played, and continues to play, such an important role in the life of our family.”
In December 2010, Hamilton launched Bicentennial Initiatives, a $117-million effort to provide funding for three strategic priorities as the College approaches its 200th anniversary in 2012. The three goals are endowment for student scholarships, new arts facilities and the Annual Fund.
In honor of Hamilton’s bicentennial, the College hopes to enroll 200 new Joel Bristol Associates. If you have provided for Hamilton in your Will or would like to endow your Annual Fund contribution, or support the arts or scholarships through your estate plan, please call Ben Madonia ’74 at 866-729-0317 or submit information online.
