CANTON -- A recent gift made to SUNY Canton recognizes the significant impact a two-time alumna has had on both the college and local communities.

Barbara Theobald Rich Wilder, class of 1953 and 1970, was honored at the dedication of The Barbara Rich Wilder Nursing/PTA Study Suite' Saturday. The suite features a lounge area for nursing students and a computer and study room.

Wilder, who has served as a director on the Canton College Foundation since 2009, was unaware of the gift being made by her husband Frederick who wanted to surprise her.

"SUNY Canton has been great for the North Country as so many students have been able to obtain a sound education for a successful future. We feel very strongly that it is more important now to invest in SUNY Canton," Wilder said. "Both Frederick and I hope this room will be a place for nursing and physical therapy assistant students to meet, reflect, plan, and study so they will be prepared to be among the best in all graduating health professionals."

Wilder attended the college in 1953 and later returned as a non-traditional student in the nursing program and graduated in 1970. She then became a registered nurse and worked in the field.

Wilder has served in a number of volunteer roles in the community, as a trustee of the Benton Library Board and Canton Methodist Church, and as director for St. Lawrence County Cooperative Extension, 4-H Division, and the Canton Garden Club. She has been an active volunteer for the American Red Cross, Well Child Clinics, and the Canton Rescue Squad.