Alumnus turned ‘townie’ cements legacy in OHIO Athletics

Pete Lalich, BSED ’66, MED ’67, like many who fall in love with Athens while students, did not leave town after graduation, but rather made a life for himself in the local community. “I’m not a native of Athens, but I have been here most of my life,” he says. After graduating, Lalich began teaching at Athens High School, where he worked for 40 years. Now retired, he is back on campus nearly every day, helping keep student athletes on track with their academics and attendance. Lalich has extensive ties to OHIO athletics — his father, uncle, and brother all came to OHIO on athletic scholarships to play basketball.

His father and uncle even earned spots in the Ohio Athletics Hall of Fame. “They did very well when given the opportunity by Ohio University,” he says. “That was impressed upon me.” To express his appreciation, Lalich has established a planned gift to enhance student athletes’ nutrition programs in men’s basketball, as well as support the football program. Lalich said that creating a will bequest and beneficiary designation was the right option, because it allows him to remain in control of his funds and avoid some estate administration expenses. This gift demonstrates Lalich’s lifelong commitment to OHIO, honors his Bobcat family ties, and ensures that the legacy of both will live on.