GETTYSBURG, Pa. – The Gettysburg College Office of College Advancement and Intercollegiate Athletics has announced the continued growth of The Robert '62 & Marsha '62 Parker and The Parker Endowed Fund for Men's Basketball.

The endowment honors the generosity and lifelong devotion of Robert "Wheaties" and Marsha Parker, whose steadfast commitment to the College continues to elevate Bullets men's basketball and athletics as a whole.

In early November, President Robert Iuliano and Nick Poehler, Director of the Orange & Blue Club, traveled to Ocean City, Maryland, to visit the Parker family. During their time together, the Parkers shared cherished memories from their Gettysburg days and reflected on the profound influence the College has had on their lives. The College remains deeply grateful for their warmth, enthusiasm and continued belief in the mission of Gettysburg Athletics.

They have pledged an additional gift of $250,000 to further grow their endowed fund, ensuring the continued strength and success of the men's basketball program as it begins a new era under head coach Matt Hunter. Wheaties shared his excitement about the promise he sees in Coach Hunter's leadership and shared that their decision to expand the endowment stems from a deep trust in both the program's trajectory and the guidance of Executive Director of Athletics and Recreation Troy Dell '95.

This extraordinary generosity also qualifies the Parkers for inclusion in The Benefactors Circle, a distinction recognizing Gettysburg College's most generous supporters. Recognizing alumni, parents, and friends whose lifetime giving exceeds $1 million, the Benefactors Circle honors those whose transformative philanthropy has made a lasting impact on the College and its students.

"With the incredible generosity of Robert and Marsha Parker and the establishment of The Parker Foundation Endowed Fund for Men's Basketball, our program is positioned for lasting success," said Hunter. "The continued growth of this endowment is a powerful reflection of their belief in our mission and will empower generations of student-athletes to excel both on the court and in the classroom. We are deeply grateful to the Parker family for their vision and support as we continue to build upon this extraordinary legacy."

All gifts contributed to the Parker Endowment will enhance the men's basketball program by providing resources for the head coach, facility upgrades, equipment, recruitment, and professional development opportunities for the coaching staff.

Robert "Wheaties" Parker remains one of the most decorated players in Gettysburg men's basketball history. The creation and continued growth of this endowment stand as a fitting tribute to his remarkable legacy and to the Parkers' enduring belief in the transformative power of athletics at Gettysburg College.