SMU Remembers Patsy Pinson Hutchison ’54, SMU Benefactor and Alumna
SMU alumna Patsy Pinson Hutchison ’54, a devoted University supporter, passed away on May 15, 2018. Along with her husband and fellow alumnus, Bill, the Hutchisons have long been familiar figures at the SMU-in-Taos Cultural Institute at SMU’s campus in Taos, N.M., supporting The Chapel at Fort Burgwin, which was dedicated in 2014.
DALLAS (SMU) – SMU alumna Patsy Pinson Hutchison ’54, a devoted University supporter, passed away on May 15, 2018. Along with her husband and fellow alumnus, Bill, the Hutchisons have long been familiar figures at the SMU-in-Taos Cultural Institute at SMU’s campus in Taos, N.M., supporting The Chapel at Fort Burgwin, which was dedicated in 2014.
“Patsy Hutchison’s love for SMU was deep and constant,” SMU President R. Gerald Turner said. “Our University has benefited from the Hutchisons’ enduring commitment to education and enrichment and a special affinity for our Taos campus. Gail and I, along with all those who attend the Cultural institute at SMU-in-Taos each summer, will truly miss her warm, friendly presence each year.”
Mrs. Hutchison earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from SMU and was a member of Pi Beta Phi sorority. She served as vice president of the SMU Mother’s Club and on the reunion committee for her 50th reunion year class in 2004.
A noted civic and community volunteer in Santa Fe, N.M., where the Hutchisons reside, she served on the boards of Kitchen Angels – an organization that provides meals for the homebound – and the New Mexico Governor’s Mansion Foundation. She also was involved with the Santa Fe Garden Club. While the Hutchisons lived in Dallas, she was a member of the Junior League of Dallas.
Mr. Hutchison ’54 is an SMU Trustee Emeritus, serving on its board from 1981-1987. In addition to The Chapel at Fort Burgwin, the Hutchisons’ generous support includes the Ima Leete Hutchison Concert series at SMU-in-Taos. They supported many other initiatives at SMU, creating endowed chairs, scholarships and program funds such as the Ima Leete Hutchison Endowment in the Meadows School of the Arts.
“Patsy exuded such grace and elegance, yet she always made everyone feel like a good friend. She has left a lasting mark on SMU, an institution she loved very much,” said Brad Cheves, SMU vice president for Development and External Affairs. “The Hutchisons’ rich SMU legacy is part of the University fabric extending over four generations. We will forever be grateful for their support and service.”