Wilfrid (Willie) Nash found his calling as an educator.
A native of Lyndhurst, New Jersey, Nash found a new home at St. Bonaventure University where he received a scholarship to play football. Though he did not play on the team for the entirety of his time at St. Bonaventure, he persevered and finished his degree in physical education at the persuasion of long-time Bonaventure professor Leo Keenan.
For his master’s thesis, Nash wrote a book entitled “Go Look and See!” The book was a guide for policies and procedures for elementary field trips, as well as sites for elementary and secondary educational field trips.
On June 23, 1951, he married the love of his life, Maria Felecia Marra. Together, they had two daughters and three sons.
For 29 years, Nash was an educator in the Olean City School District, teaching elementary physical education at 10 different schools.
One of Nash’s biggest accomplishments working in the Olean City School District was when he received a grant to offer outdoor education for his 6th grade classes. The students spent a week outdoors learning different skills.
Therein lies the essence of the Wilfrid (Willie) Nash Scholarship Fund: The scholarship will go to a graduating senior of any Cattaraugus County high school, intending to study elementary physical education at any post-secondary institution.
Nash was also highly active in community affairs. He was an instructor in the medical aid training course for the Civil Defense Program and an assistant chairman for the Cancer Crusade.
He also assisted with the welcoming committee at St. Bonaventure, the NY Education Association Political Action Committee and acted as the commission chairman for the Olean Recreation Committee.
As a scout leader, he received the Silver Beaver Award from the Seneca Council for his work with the area scouting groups. In 1977, he was named the president of the Allegheny Highlands Council.
“By supporting seniors pursuing careers in physical education, we hope to continue Willie’s legacy of promoting health, fitness and education for generations to come,” stated Kirk Windus, CRCF executive director.
Donations can be made to the Wilfrid (Willie) Nash Scholarship Fund at CRCF, 301 North Union St., Suite 203, or online at cattfoundation.org.
The Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation is the area’s supportive, responsive and trusted community foundation. Established in 1994, CRCF is growing good by connecting donors to the causes they care about most in the region. Grants from the foundation support many areas, including education, scholarships, health care, the arts, community development, human service, and youth development. To learn more, call (716) 301-CRCF (2723), email [email protected], or visit online at www.cattfoundation.org. CRCF is also on Facebook (facebook.com/cattfoundation) and Twitter (@CattFoundation).
