Larry Powers '38 and Elly Powers '38

Setting the stage to inspire generations

The Powers Dance Studio has suspended wood floors, full-length mirrors and a high ceiling infused with generous natural light. It is exactly the premier environment Dr. Larry ’38 and Elly Powers ’38 wanted to ensure for generations of students at the College of Charleston.

The Powers met, fell in love and launched their lives from the College of Charleston. Larry was a leading scholar in genetics and a recipient of the distinguished Guggenheim Fellowship. Elly was an extraordinary linguist, mastering five languages at the College. The Powers, who passed away months apart in 2005, led a full life with seven daughters and many grandchildren.

When they wanted to give something back to the college that had given them so much, they decided their gift would be a studio in the new Marion and Wayland H. Jr. Cato Center for the Arts. The Powers Dance Studio opened in 2010 in honor of Elly Powers’ sister, Elizabeth “Beth” Wall Fogerty, ’39, a librarian with an extraordinary passion for dance.

Generations of students and faculty will benefit from the Powers’ legacy at the College of Charleston.

Interested in leaving a legacy of your own? Find out more about gift and estate planning by contacting David Masich at masichd@cofc.edu or (843)953-1835, or visiting our Planned Giving website.

View all impact stories »