Wilson McElhinny ’49

What inspired you to include St. George’s in your estate plans?

I came to St. George’s in September of 1944. Because of the school’s proximity to the naval base, and the financial and enrollment challenges they were having, they must have lowered their admission standards in order for me to get in! I wasn’t a very good student, but Headmaster Eccles took a chance on me, and I’m so glad he did. Dr. Eccles and the faculty took a boy who wasn’t a good student, and through patience and persistence, turned me into a good student who was accepted at Williams and Yale. I chose to go to Yale, and had a successful career in banking afterwards — all due to St. George’s. The school was incredibly supportive, and they made me the man who I’ve become. I grew so much that I was elected as senior prefect my sixth-form year, and I even made the Honor Roll!

What are some of your fondest memories from your days as a student? 

Picnic with the former Headmaster Buell at Purgatory was a favorite memory. The Chapel, of course, was always present. Even though I’m not a religious person, going to chapel eight times a week certainly played a role in forming me into who I am today. I had superb masters in nearly every subject, and they shaped me both academically and personally. They were inspired teachers and people. In particular, Norry Hoyt played an outsized role in my development. He was an outstanding English master, and he resurrected the crew team after WWII. We would run down to Third Beach after classes each day of the season, and we’d launch our boats there. He kindled in me a love of being on the water, and since, I’ve enjoyed a lifelong love of sailing and rowing. Being senior prefect is also a cherished memory, and it was a great exercise in leadership. 

What’s the most valuable thing  you learned or experienced on the Hilltop?  

Essential honesty and integrity. I learned this, in a way, from each master, who demonstrated these qualities, and in return, expected them from each of us. Master Twitchell tutored me in French, and was very patient and forgiving. He, along with my other teachers, played a role in my finally making the honor roll in the sixth form. 

What has helped you stay  connected to St. George’s long  after Prize Day? 

My relationships with classmates and those who were a year older and a year younger than me kept me involved and interested in the school for many years after graduation. Then my oldest son, David ’71, came to St. George’s, and he went on to serve as a trustee, and so he kept me abreast of what was going on at the school. Later on, my grand-daughter, David’s daughter,  
Taylor ’10, came to SG, and her attendance renewed our interest in the school all over again. It’s really been a family affair. 

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: 

Ryan W. Kirk 
Director of Leadership Giving  
401-842-6729 
ryan_kirk@stgeorges.edu