For Gerry ’87 and Carol Beland ’87, P’24, Merrimack has played a special role in their lives in countless ways.
The two chemistry majors first met in a Merrimack lab and graduated together, with Carol earning the title of class valedictorian. Several years after graduation they were married on campus at the Collegiate Church of Christ the Teacher.
When it came time for their children, twins Max ’24 and Sophia ’24, to select where they would attend college, Gerry and Carol were pleasantly surprised to learn that both decided to enroll at Merrimack.
Gerry recalls, “We were incredibly supportive of their decision, and immediately knew they had made the right call.”
Max and Sophia, now seniors, have enjoyed the opportunity to pursue their individual interests at Merrimack. Sophia is a member of the honors program and runs on the track and cross country teams. Max is in the Austin Scholars program and is president of the Student Government Association.
Amid balancing accomplished careers—Carol is manager of global customer service and sales channels for Cambridge Isotope Labs, and Gerry is vice president of sales and strategy for Veolia North America—the Belands have prioritized finding ways to stay connected to the College that is so meaningful to their family.
In addition to attending various alumni events, they are generous philanthropic supporters of chemistry scholarships and both currently serve on Merrimack’s Parents Leadership Council (PLC), an organization that brings together parents who share an interest in strengthening the mission of the College and enhancing the student experience through philanthropic leadership.
Carol and Gerry agree that becoming more deeply involved with Merrimack has enhanced their experience as alumni and parents.
Carol shares, “You clearly want your child to go to this institution and you supported their decision to attend. Why not get involved in ways to make the College better, to make your child’s experience better and to help others have a better experience, too?”
