Paul and Mary Lou Wood arrived in Olean 50 years ago, a move that would set the stage for a lifetime of community service and philanthropy.
Paul had accepted a faculty position at St. Bonaventure University in the department of Modern Languages, a role he would hold for 35 years. His passion for language education and student mentorship helped shape the university’s curriculum, and his efforts were instrumental in fostering academic excellence.
During his tenure, Paul served as chair of the Department of Modern Languages for nine years and was widely respected for his scholarship in French literature, with a special emphasis on Jean Anouilh and Moliere. He published numerous peer-reviewed articles and presented at conferences across the United States and internationally.
Paul also co-founded the university’s Modern Languages Honor Society chapter and led student immersion trips abroad, particularly to France and Quebec, helping to expand students’ global perspectives.
Mary Lou, a dedicated educator, as well, initially worked as a substitute teacher in the Olean City School District before securing a full-time teaching position at Portville Central School. Together, they built a deep appreciation for education, recognizing its transformative power and how it shaped communities.
“Education has always been at the heart of what we do,” Paul once remarked. “It’s more than just a profession – it’s a way to uplift others and give back.”
On July 30, 2025, the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation will honor Paul and Mary Lou Wood as the Friends of the Foundation, the Foundation’s highest honor. This recognition speaks to the Woods’ steadfast commitment to the Olean community.
Beyond the classroom, the Woods were deeply invested in giving back to the community they called home. Their philanthropic journey began with small contributions but quickly grew into something much greater.
In 2013, they established the Paul and Mary Lou Wood Foundation Fund at CRCF, a fund designed to provide annual grants to causes they held dear and thought vital: the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, Olean General Hospital and the Franciscan Center for Social Concern at St. Bonaventure University.
“We thought it made sense using our money that way because so often Olean, which deserves support, doesn’t get it,” Mary Lou stated. “We were more interested in trying to play a role in maintaining this place.”
Their commitment to the region extended further with their support for local Catholic service causes. Through their foundation, they have made significant contributions to service and faith-based initiatives, recognizing the role that faith and service play in community well-being.
The Paul and Mary Lou Wood Foundation Fund for the Franciscan Center for Social Concern was established in 2019. The fund benefits the Franciscan Center for Social Concern at St. Bonaventure University, which administers several community-based programs, including the Warming House – the Olean area’s only soup kitchen, BonaBuddies, a mentoring program for area youth, service trips that impact those in need locally and abroad, among others. - just moved for context with the graph above.
One of the Woods’ most impactful contributions is their support of student-athletes at St. Bonaventure University.
In 2016, they created the Paul and Mary Lou Wood Swim Scholarship, an initiative that provides a $10,000 annual scholarship to a member of the university’s men’s or women’s swim team. This scholarship not only recognizes athletic achievement but also encourages academic excellence and personal growth.
Since its inception, the scholarship has awarded $80,000 to deserving students, helping them balance the demands of academics and athletics.
The Wood children all grew up taking swimming lessons at St. Bonaventure, and three of the four went on to swim in college.
The Woods’ influence extends beyond education and philanthropy into the very fabric of Olean’s community development. They have been supporters of various civic projects, including the Olean High School Commemorative Walkway, where Paul and Mary Lou were the first patrons to purchase a brick.
CRCF’s decision to honor Paul and Mary Lou Wood as the 2025 Friends of the Foundation is a fitting tribute to their decades of service and generosity. This recognition highlights not only their financial contributions but also their spirit of selflessness and dedication to community betterment.
“Paul and Mary Lou exemplify what it means to give out of the goodness of one’s heart” noted CRCF Executive Director Kirk Windus. “Their goodness – coupled with an unselfish and humble approach to philanthropy and service – has made a difference in countless lives. They are more than deserving of this award, and we are honored to celebrate them.”
The story of Paul and Mary Lou Wood is one of community dedication and a resolute belief in the power of togetherness, said Windus. Through their contributions to education, healthcare, faith and civic initiatives, they have created a legacy that will continue to benefit Olean for years to come.
Their journey serves as an inspiration to others, a reminder that giving back – whether through time, philanthropy or mentorship – can forever change lives and better communities.
For Paul and Mary Lou Wood, Olean is more than just a place – it’s home. And through their remarkable generosity, they have helped make it a better home for everyone who calls it their own.
The Friends of the Foundation Luncheon will be held on July 30 at St. Bonaventure University, and will also honor the 2025 CRCF scholarship recipients.
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).
