Meet Gary and Patsy Poole, proud alumni of Athens State, whose story began with individual pursuits intertwined by a common love for the University. Throughout their 48-year marriage, Athens State, specifically Founders Hall, have been steadfast pillars in their family life.
Gary Poole graduated in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Education and returned the very next year to complete a master’s degree in teaching with a focus on history. Patsy Poole earned her degree in Music in 1975 and returned for a second bachelor’s degree in elementary education, which she completed in 1976. Though they didn’t meet during their student years, their connection to Athens State – and one another – was destined.
Through match-making efforts of Gary’s mother, Gary and Patsy soon married in 1977 in the Founders Hall Parlor. Athens State was not only the place where they achieved academic success, but also where they began their life together. At the time, weddings in Founders Hall were rare, and the Pooles recall working directly with the president’s assistant to arrange their ceremony. Even when they discovered the parlor piano was too out of tune to use on their big day, a fellow alumnus stepped in with a guitar, making the moment even more special.
Founders Hall has continued to serve as a central thread in their story. Over the years, the Pooles have returned for family photos, bridal showers, and special celebrations.
Founders has always been our go-to place,” Patsy shared. “Whenever we needed a meaningful place for family gatherings, we came back here.
Their ties to Athens State extend beyond sentiment. As proud alumni and passionate supporters, the Pooles have a commemorative brick paver in front of Founders Hall and two named seats in McCandless Hall – visible symbols of their commitment to the University’s success and future.
Both Gary and Patsy were dedicated educators. Gary began teaching and coaching basketball while still an Athens State student at Trinity High School during the final years of segregation in Alabama. This was also the last year that Trinity High School was open and Gary led the basketball team to win the Limestone County basketball tournament, which was the first championship win in the school’s 100-year history.
Patsy taught sixth grade for 37 years at Tanner Elementary School, earning the lifelong affection of her students. Their careers were shaped by their time at Athens State, where small class sizes and dedicated professors gave them not only academic knowledge, but also the confidence to step into careers and adult life with confidence.
“Athens was it,” Gary said. “Without Athens – not just the degree, but the exposure and the people – I wouldn’t have had the world that opened up to me.”
Patsy echoed this sentiment, recalling fondly the bonds formed through bridge games in the student union and the mentorship of professors who opened their homes and hearts to students.
Today, the Pooles continue to visit campus and are proud of its growth. Athens State is not just where they earned their degrees – it’s where they built a life, rooted in community, education, and love.
About the College of Education: The mission of the College of Education (COE) at Athens State University is to prepare teacher candidates to become reflective practitioners who are knowledgeable and collaborative professionals. The COE provides quality programs that meet the educational needs of ever-changing student populations. In accordance with our mission, continual assessment-based improvements are being made. Our goal is to provide rigorous yet flexible programs for students that encourage wider skillsets with multiple credentials. Learn more about the COE HERE.