Contributor Profiles

Charles W. Carl, Jr.

A quintessential gentleman, Charles Carl left an indelible mark on his community

Proctors, Ellis Hospital, United Way, YMCA -- just about every organization in Schenectady has benefited from the involvement of Charles Carl, one of the founders of The Schenectady Foundation. A1941 graduate of Nott Terrace High School and Syracuse University, Chuck became president of the family-owned Carl Co. business in 1956.

He was the quintessential gentleman, and a quiet leader; he never sought recognition and shied away from the limelight. His devotion to Schenectady can be felt throughout the city. Chuck served several terms on The Schenectady Foundation Distribution Committee over nearly 40 years, and was instrumental in securing a number of major gifts to the Foundation.

Chuck was president of the Animal Protective Foundation, director of the Schenectady Senior Citizens Center, and an active board member of Ellis Hospital for 18 years. He was also on the boards of the Ingersoll Memorial Home for Men, Schenectady Museum and the Community Chest. A trustee of the Twin Rivers Boy Scout Council, Chuck was named a patroon by the city of Schenectady in 1984.

A member of the Trustco board for 40 years, he was also a member of the Schenectady Rose Society, Mohawk Golf Club, Chamber of Commerce, Northeast Parent & Child Society and Green Mountain College. His generous gift of approximately $1.7 million is helping The Schenectady Foundation continue to support the city and institutions he loved.