Recognized as an outstanding writer, teacher, philanthropist and friend, G.E.“Skip” Lawrence, former Director of Development at Haverford, passed away Saturday, April 25, 2009 at age 60 in Phoenixville, PA. Skip worked at Haverford from 1980-1987, and was inducted as an honorary member of the class of 1935.

Skip received a bachelor's degree in government from Cornell University and a graduate degree in theology and social ethics from the Divinity School at the University of Chicago. He served as a fundraising director for numerous nonprofit organizations, including the University of Delaware, Stevens Institute of Technology, the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia, and most recently the Phoenixville Main Street Community Development Corporation and the Stepping Stones Preschool, where his grandchildren were students. A columnist and senior political correspondent for The Phoenix, Phoenixville's newspaper, Skip was a tireless advocate for his town. Friends and colleagues have praised him for his compassion, intellect, and kindness.

Skip is survived by his dear friend of 23 years, Adrienne Selinger, Haverford's Associate for Parent Programs and Admissions Volunteers Coordinator; children Chris and Heather; stepchildren Seamus and April; and six grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, April 30, at 4 p.m. at Franklin Commons, 400 Franklin Avenue, Suite 400, Phoenixville, PA. In lieu of flowers, Skip's family has asked that donations be made to the Arthritis Foundation, 111 South Independence Mall East, Suite 500, Philadelphia, PA 19106; or the Stepping Stone Education Center, 400 Franklin Avenue, Suite 400, Phoenixville, PA 19460.