Helping Students in Need

Charles ’69 and Christine Villella Winwood ’71, both from small Western Pennsylvania towns, found their home and, as Chuck would say, “the love of his life, and his moral compass” at IUP. Chris had been accepted to other schools, but they were all too big and seemed unfriendly. Chuck always planned to be a teacher and was looking for something affordable. Chris settled into English education and language arts, and Chuck majored in History education.

After graduating, Chuck was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the US Army and was deployed to Vietnam. When he returned many things changed and he made the decision to go into law enforcement. For thirty-one years he was part of the US Customs Service and Border Protection. Chuck said, “My teaching background became very helpful with my work in customs dealing with multiple issues related to training, educating and communication.”

In 2010, Chuck received the Distinguished Alumni Award for his notable career with the US Customs Service and for his many achievements that have been recognized by US presidents, foreign governments and community organizations.

Chris went on to teach honors English at two different high schools in Miami, Florida, for ten years before changing careers. She spent time in the Communication and Public Relations Office of the Miami Herald, and eventually as the Executive Director of the National Newspaper Association. Following her time there, she has volunteered with several elementary schools to work with children and help them develop their reading and writing skills.

Chuck shared, “Chris has always been the extrovert—the outgoing one. I became more than I ever could have imagined because of her. Her kindness, her caring, and her ability to diffuse the anger or frustration of others has always amazed me. I wanted to do something in her name to honor everything that she has contributed to students over the years and to help others become better people through the study of language.”

The Winwoods’ estate gift in excess of $206,000 will go to establish two funds to support students in need from Western Pennsylvania. The Christine Villella Winwood Scholarship supports students pursuing a degree from the Department of English and the Charles W. Winwood Scholarship supports students pursuing a degree in the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

To learn how your estate gift can support future students at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, contact Indiana University of Pennsylvania at 724-357-5661 or university-advancement@iup.edu.