CASHTON, Wis. (WXOW) – With a passion for journalism and a career which expanded through leadership roles, Gene Purcell was considered a leader in public broadcasting.
Gene started his career like many, at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse as a radio DJ and reporter for the campus newspaper. Through his love for media, Gene eventually moved his way up the ladder to become the Director of Wisconsin Public Media based in Madison.
In 2021, Gene lost his life as a result of a traffic accident, but his legacy continues on, leaving behind opportunities for generations to come.
“He was a big backer of education in general. I knew Gene probably since the mid 80’s,” John Davis, a Reporter and Producer for Wisconsin Public Radio said. “We used to go out and have some beverages, shoot some pool. And he always talked about Cashton.”
It’s the place Gene was proud to call home. His alma mater now has the renowned broadcaster’s name attached to it through the Gene Purcell Memorial Scholarship.
“We appreciate what his family’s done. What his friends at Wisconsin Public Radio have done to give back. It’s a nice way. All of the endowments are perpetual. We only use the interest from them so this will go on for ever and ever in his name. It’s a nice way to have his name and remember it in the community,” Mike Huntzicker, Board President of the Cashton Scholarship Foundation said.
The scholarship is offered to students through the Cashton Scholarship Foundation. It is intended for those interested in continuing their education at a four year university or a technical college.
“Gene’s will be kind of targeted toward anyone going into the broadcasting field,” Huntzicker said. “The endowments can have that choice if they want to. And Gene’s family obviously would like if somebody goes into Journalism or broadcasting that’d be great.”
Gene’s scholarship not only will enhance opportunities for fellow Cashton alumni, but it represents a person of whom many looked up to and continue to.
“I didn’t know anybody who didn’t like Gene. I really didn’t. He was a friend with so many people and he treated everybody the same. Gene rose to the top because he was a great guy,” Davis said.
If you are interested in donating to the Gene Purcell Memorial Scholarship. You can send you donation to the Cashton Scholarship Foundation with “Gene Purcell Scholarship” in the memo to P.O. Box 61 Cashton, Wisconsin 54619.
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