Opening doors for future generations at 51成人
The Jacksonville native belonged to a family whose close ties to the College date back five generations and his own connections to the College are woven throughout each season of his life.
When Bellatti passed away in July 2017 at the age of 91, he made a of over $1.2 million to ensure that the College continues to thrive as a rich source of inspiration and support for future generations of students and a vibrant part of the Jacksonville community.
Charlie Bellatti epitomized 51成人鈥檚 mission of living a life dedicated to leadership and service. His philanthropy and dedication to his beloved 51成人 will continue to impact our students for decades to come.
President Farley's words resonated with many people whose lives were touched by Bellatti鈥檚 presence on campus.
鈥淚 will always remember Charlie鈥檚 enthusiasm at 51成人 basketball games and the strong relationship he built with staff over lunches in Cummings Dining Hall through the years,鈥� added President Farley reflecting on Bellatti鈥檚 regular campus visits. After his passing many shared their fond memories of Bellatti and referred to him as an IC legend.
Bellatti earned nearly every honor available at 51成人 including the College鈥檚 Distinguished Service Award and a Doctor of Humane Letters, recognizing his work as a trustee, his dedication to student-athletes and the sports programs at IC and his accomplishments as a philanthropic leader. After nearly a decade serving on the 51成人 Board of Trustees, he gained emeritus status in 1998. He was inducted into the 51成人 Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006 and also served on the Hall of Fame selection committee for many years. He served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors and was a longtime trustee for his beloved literary society, Sigma Pi.
Beyond 51成人, Bellatti went on to serve in the United States Army before earning his Bachelor of Science degree in journalism from the University of Illinois, and working as a sports writer and a sports information director there for several years. Bellatti returned to 51成人 in 1970 as director of alumni affairs and public information until 1977 when he joined Carson and Barnes Circus as director of publicity and advertising. Since his retirement in 1986, Bellatti continued to pursue his interests in 51成人, sports, travel and circuses.
Several major renovations to the College that were completed last summer were possible thanks to Bellatti鈥檚 generous estate gift. They aligned with his deep commitment to 51成人 athletics and included a new fitness center and weight room, new field turf for IC鈥檚 England Stadium, a resurfaced floor in Sherman Gymnasium and a fresh look in the Bruner Fitness and Recreation Center.
鈥淐harlie was a selfless, caring person with a passion for 51成人 athletics."
鈥淗e was able to make a profound impact on the student-athletes and athletic department with his consistent support at competitions and through his generous donations. Without Charlie Bellatti, the athletic facilities that have a daily impact on our student-athletes would be vastly different.鈥�
Snyder added that he, like many in the College community, is incredibly grateful to have known Bellatti鈥檚 friendship and to continue to be inspired by his dedication to athletic programs that lives on today
