The “Jack” W. and Gertrude Horan Memorial Art Museum Endowment
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Jack Horan inspired young people, including his 11 grandchildren, to explore the artistic aspects of their lives. In his spare time, and later, in retirement, the co-founder and longtime head of the computer-science program at SUNY Potsdam would “dabble in clay figures,” sketch, and oil-paint landscapes and still-life pictures, recalls his son, John.
The World War II veteran also encouraged a young friend, Michael Boots, to become involved in community service. Horan, who served on the local hospital board, was a charter member of the Massena Recreation Commission and the Massena Housing Authority board, and a trustee of his family parish, Sacred Heart. Gertrude – Boots’ first-grade teacher – shared her husband’s commitment to their neighbors in New York’s North Country by volunteering for various local causes.
To honor the late couple, Boots, a UAlbany development officer for 20 years, established The “Jack” W. and Gertrude Horan Memorial Art Museum Endowment. The fund supports the activities, initiatives, and events of the University Art Museum’s Student Advisory Committee, whose members encourage involvement with and awareness of museum resources.
The endowment, Boots feels, is “a fitting way to honor the Horans’ memory while helping undergraduates learn about and appreciate art and the University Art Museum.”
Adds John Horan: “Our family is so thankful to Michael for remembering our parents. They were special people, no doubt. “It just goes to show you the impact you can have on people. We should be mindful of our contribution to humanity every day of our lives.”