John D. Cutlip (’56), of Strasburg, VA and Glenville State College’s long time representative for the Shenandoah Valley Alumni Chapter passed away on Saturday, September 11, 2010. Several years ago, John recognized that many of the educators in the Shenandoah Valley area were GSC grads and worked diligently to build what has become the largest and most active of the college’s many alumni chapters across the United States.

Under his leadership, annual chapter meetings were well planned and conducted and his noted sense of humor was always appreciated.

Acknowledging some health issues, John announced his “retirement” as chapter representative at the 2010 chapter meeting and handed the chapter leadership reins to Doris (’70) and Gary (’71) Strosnider. In doing so, he joked that it would take two people to do what he had been doing alone for several years but then quickly added, with his sharp wit and quick smile, that without the help of his lovely wife, Georgia, he would never have been able to pull off the annual events. In addition to Georgia, John is survived by four daughters: Teresa, Donna, Melanie, and Julie and one son, John D. II.

Upon hearing of John’s passing, GSC President Peter Barr noted that the drive to “the valley” for annual chapter dinners was always a summer highlight for him and Betsy and that John’s leadership will remain an example for chapter leaders to follow.

Bill Deel, GSC’s Alumni Association President, also expressed appreciation for John’s vision and commitment to the success of the Shenandoah Valley Alumni Chapter and acknowledged that John’s love and appreciation for his alma mater was evident in his service to the college and to the Alumni Association.

The entire GSC family extends sympathy to the Cutlip family during this difficult time and salutes the dedicated service of John Cutlip, a true Pioneer.