Boston, MA – Dr. Jacqui Schuman, Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics and Recreation at the University of Massachusetts Boston, has announced a landmark estate gift from the late Joseph E. McGurn, a proud University of Massachusetts Boston alumnus from the Class of 1971. With the initial commitment from Mr. McGurn's estate, along with additional contributions, the total value of the newly established endowment exceeds $600,000. This fund, named the Joseph E. McGurn Cross-Country and Track & Field Enhancement Fund, is dedicated to improving all aspects of the cross-country and track & field programs.

"We are truly grateful for Mr. McGurn's generosity," said Chancellor Marcelo Suárez-Orozco. "This gift is a significant contribution to the future success of our cross-country and track & field teams, and it supports our athletic department's mission of providing students and our community with transformative experiences. It helps cultivate individuals of character who are ready to drive change in the world."

"We are incredibly thankful for Mr. McGurn's generosity," said Schuman. "This transformational gift reflects a profound commitment to our university, its programs, and our student-athletes. It also marks a historic moment for our department, as this is the first estate gift received by the Athletics and Recreation Department at UMass Boston."  

Ozzie Brown, head coach of the cross-country and track & field programs, expressed his gratitude, stating, "Our teams are truly amazed by the significant impact of Mr. McGurn's gift. These funds will help to enhance all areas of our programs including increasing opportunities to compete on the regional and national stage and elevating the student-athlete experience." 

Joseph McGurn graduated from Medford High School before earning a political science degree from UMass Boston in 1971. He later pursued further education at Salem State, where he received a master's degree in English, focusing on creative writing in 2017. A dedicated runner and hiker, Joe remained active throughout his life and shared his adventures through a blog documenting his hiking experiences across New England. 

For more information about the Joseph E. McGurn Cross-Country and Track & Field Enhancement Fund, please contact the UMass Boston Athletics and Recreation Department.