The Jacksonville native belonged to a family whose close ties to the College date back five generations and his own connections to the College are woven throughout each season of his life.

When Bellatti passed away in July 2017 at the age of 91, he made a transformative estate gift of over $1.2 million to ensure that the College continues to thrive as a rich source of inspiration and support for future generations of students and a vibrant part of the Jacksonville community.

President Farley's words resonated with many people whose lives were touched by Bellatti’s presence on campus.

“I will always remember Charlie’s enthusiasm at Illinois College basketball games and the strong relationship he built with staff over lunches in Cummings Dining Hall through the years,” added President Farley reflecting on Bellatti’s regular campus visits. After his passing many shared their fond memories of Bellatti and referred to him as an IC legend.

Bellatti earned nearly every honor available at Illinois College including the College’s Distinguished Service Award and a Doctor of Humane Letters, recognizing his work as a trustee, his dedication to student-athletes and the sports programs at IC and his accomplishments as a philanthropic leader. After nearly a decade serving on the Illinois College Board of Trustees, he gained emeritus status in 1998. He was inducted into the Illinois College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006 and also served on the Hall of Fame selection committee for many years. He served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors and was a longtime trustee for his beloved literary society, Sigma Pi.

Beyond Illinois College, Bellatti went on to serve in the United States Army before earning his Bachelor of Science degree in journalism from the University of Illinois, and working as a sports writer and a sports information director there for several years. Bellatti returned to Illinois College in 1970 as director of alumni affairs and public information until 1977 when he joined Carson and Barnes Circus as director of publicity and advertising. Since his retirement in 1986, Bellatti continued to pursue his interests in Illinois College, sports, travel and circuses.

Several major renovations to the College that were completed last summer were possible thanks to Bellatti’s generous estate gift. They aligned with his deep commitment to Illinois College athletics and included a new fitness center and weight room, new field turf for IC’s England Stadium, a resurfaced floor in Sherman Gymnasium and a fresh look in the Bruner Fitness and Recreation Center.

 “He was able to make a profound impact on the student-athletes and athletic department with his consistent support at competitions and through his generous donations. Without Charlie Bellatti, the athletic facilities that have a daily impact on our student-athletes would be vastly different.”

Snyder added that he, like many in the College community, is incredibly grateful to have known Bellatti’s friendship and to continue to be inspired by his dedication to athletic programs that lives on today