Historic $9 Million Gift Transforms Lives at Georgia College for Future Generations

Dr. Gertrude Ehrlich's Transformative Bequest to Georgia College

In a poignant narrative of resilience and generosity, Dr. Gertrude Ehrlich, a Holocaust refugee, has left an indelible mark on Georgia College & State University through a historic bequest of $9 million after her passing at the age of 102. Her story, which began in Nazi-occupied Austria in 1939, exemplifies the power of education as a sanctuary and the profound impact that a single individual can have on the lives of many.

Ehrlich and her family fled their homeland, seeking refuge in the United States, where they found hope and opportunity. Thanks to a scholarship from the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), she attended Georgia College, then known as Georgia State College for Women, and diligently earned her bachelor's degree in mathematics. During her time at the college, she thrived, becoming one of its first international students, and later went on to enjoy a distinguished career as a mathematics professor and author of textbooks.

Ehrlich’s legacy will significantly benefit future generations through the Dr. Gertrude Ehrlich Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship is specifically designed to support students who face financial hardships, ensuring they can pursue their educational dreams just as Ehrlich once did. A portion of this fund will provide housing scholarships for Pell Grant-eligible students, marking a significant milestone for Georgia College as it launches its first endowed housing scholarship.

The impact of this generous donation could not be more timely. Georgia College has recently experienced unprecedented growth, with student applications soaring by 83% since 2022. This historic donation serves as a beacon of hope for many, offering financial support at a critical time when the demand for higher education is at an all-time high. Joel Robinson, the senior associate vice president of Enrollment Management, stated, “These scholarships will ensure that students have access to an elite education and will be supported throughout their college careers. It is truly a lifechanging impact.”

Dr. Seth Walker, the vice president for University Advancement, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the increasing support from alumni and donors. “Dr. Ehrlich’s transformational gift this year continues the trend of unprecedented support from our alumni, illustrating their immense pride and commitment to our mission as a public liberal arts university,” he noted.

As articulated by Georgia College President Cathy Cox, Dr. Ehrlich's life is a profound example of resilience. Her journey reflects the essence of what higher education can offer—a chance to rebuild and flourish despite adversity. “Her legacy will benefit generations of students to come, creating opportunities for those who need it most,” said Cox.

Born in Vienna in 1923, Ehrlich endured great adversity during her teenage years. The rise of Adolf Hitler's regime forced her family to flee, leading them to Atlanta, where they ultimately found a safe haven. Ehrlich’s dedication to her studies and her remarkable journey led to her not only obtaining her master's degree from the University of North Carolina but also earning a doctorate from the University of Tennessee.

As an educator, she left a lasting impact on numerous students over her 37-year tenure at the University of Maryland. In recognition of her contributions to both mathematics and the field of education, Georgia College honored her in 1970 with an alumni achievement award.

The generosity of Dr. Ehrlich reflects the profound bond alumni share with their alma mater, reinforcing the values of support and community within the Georgia College family. As future students benefit from her bequest, they will also embody the spirit of resilience and generosity that Dr. Ehrlich exemplified throughout her remarkable life.

In closing, Dr. Gertrude Ehrlich’s $9 million bequest is more than just a financial donation; it is an enduring legacy that emphasizes the transformative power of education and hope. As Georgia College prepares to implement this scholarship starting in Fall 2026, it is poised to create lasting positive impacts for many students, ensuring that dreams of higher education remain within reach for those in need.

For more information about the scholarships and programs at Georgia College, visit www.gcsu.edu.