Honoring Anne's legacy

Dave McCarthy ’71 and Norma Whitacre McCarthy ’71 were exploring how to leave a legacy at UD when they met Anne Crecelius ’07. A shared interest in improving students’ experiential learning grew their bond.

“Sometimes you meet people who clearly care. Anne was one of those people,” said Dave.

Crecelius, a professor of sport science who died in February, had a vision for what her students could accomplish through updated equipment and an engaging learning environment. The McCarthys turned the vision into the Dave and Norma McCarthy Integrative Human Physiology Lab.

Now they are continuing their legacy and Crecelius’ work with a gift of more than $90,000 to further experiential learning.

The gift will enhance the lab’s Anatomage Table — state-of-the-art technology to study anatomy and physiology. By providing 12 accompanying tablets, they are allowing more students to access hands-on learning.

“As we continuously recognize the importance of experiential learning, having state-of-the-art equipment for our students to utilize is essential for the preparation of the next generation of healers,” said Ali Carr-Chellman, dean of the School of Education and Health Sciences. “[T]his equipment will benefit all those students [Anne] loved.”