Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School (Whittier Tech) held a special dedication ceremony yesterday in honor of the Richard McGuire family, who recently donated $20,000 for the installation of a FinishLynx Track Timing system, manufactured by Lynx System Developers, Inc. in Haverhill, Massachusetts. The dedication took place just prior to Whittier Tech’s track meet against Greater Lowell Technical High School.
The generous donation was made possible through the Richard McGuire Scholarship Fund, created in memory of Richard McGuire (1963–1984), who passed away from leukemia at the age of 21. Richard was active in Lawrence street and ice hockey during the late 1970s and early 1980s. The fund was established by Richard’s parents, Henry and Theresa McGuire, to honor their son’s memory by helping students pursue continued education. Since its inception, the fund has awarded $1,200 scholarships twice per year to students in need.
From the Scholarship Fund:
“With Theresa passing last year, the passion the fund was created with has waned, and the family has decided to resolve the Scholarship Fund. It has been decided that Whittier will receive the final donation of this fund, as the technical aspects of education have been important to the family. The two oldest boys attended vocational high schools with emphasis on developing a trade, and hands-on experience. One of them volunteers to film sport events for Whittier. Additionally, 2 of Theresa and Henry’s grandchildren have attended Whittier. With the donation to help install the track timing system, we are pleased to help facilitate the ability to host sporting events at the school.”
Whittier Tech staff and students joined the McGuire family on the track to mark the occasion and express their gratitude.
“We’re incredibly grateful for this meaningful gift from the Richard McGuire Scholarship Fund,” said Jay Ihle, Whittier Tech's Track and Field Head Coach. “The timing system will have a direct impact on our athletes’ ability to train and compete at a higher level, and it also opens the door for Whittier to host large meets. This gift doesn’t just support our current and future athletes—it honors the spirit of opportunity and perseverance that Richard’s legacy represents.”
“This donation is a lasting tribute to Richard McGuire and the values his family held dear—community, hard work, and access to education,” said Kevin Bradley, Whittier Tech's Athletic Director. “We’re honored that Whittier was chosen as the final recipient of the scholarship fund. The new track timing system will benefit not only our students but the wider school community, enhancing our athletic facilities for years to come.”
The Whittier community is honored to be the recipient of this final and generous gift and will remember the McGuire family’s lasting impact on student opportunity and athletics for years to come.
