Give while you live, and know where it goes
Sharing a generous nature, the de Hoernles began a legendary philanthropic venture which would affect South Florida for years to come.
While anticipating one's first meeting with nobility, visions of being greeted by a bejeweled spectacle descending an alabaster stairway may come to mind. But amazingly a meeting with Dr. Henrietta, Countess de Hoernle is much more impactful.
Still striking, her presence is commanding, and her eyes, twinkling at times with a bit of mischief, convey the wisdom and peace of mind that come with having lived a rich and textured life while reaching out to those less fortunate.
Recognized for her keen mind, strong spirit, and tender heart, Rita, as she's referred to by close friends, seems to look at life through lenses sensitive to the plight of those in need while maintaining a sense of spirit that's too seldom seen. And the lives she's touched serve as testimony to the fact that her impact on both South Florida and Northwood University have been much more profound than mere regal intrigue.
Until recently the local legend had spent countless hours diligently researching the many requests that came her way for those in need. It was such diligence which led her to Northwood University. The Countess de Hoernle Student Life Center is a multipurpose facility which has served as the home for priceless moments in the lives of many students. "The Countess' goal with each gift she supports is to 'make a difference' and her support of the Student Life Center on our campus has made a huge difference for our students, campus, and community. Her participation in this project has allowed Northwood to grow in both academic and athletic programming and provides a homebase for many different student activities. We are very indebted to the Countess de Hoernle for her support and encouragement," said Keith Pretty, Northwood University President and CEO.
"Watching our students grow into mature young adults by mere association, participation, and competition have provided memories that cannot be duplicated in other institutions. Tears of joy and happiness in the eyes of student athletes have made me realize how wonderful it is to experience the warmth, generosity, and sense of fun shared by Countess de Hoernle, our caring friend," remarked Rollie Massimino, Northwood's Florida Campus Head Basketball Coach and Director of Basketball Operations.
With her sense of spirit and exuberance beginning at her birthplace in the Black Forest of Germany, de Hoernle was born to a middle class family of parents who were musicians. The former Henrietta Rach gained her most vivid childhood memories while living in Frankfurt. Always a bit restless and eager to discover life, she said she was often distracted from her piano lessons while other kids were playing ball.
Crossing the Atlantic aboard the SS Pennland II, she arrived in America in 1931 when she was 18, and settled in Queens, New York with her grandparents. After being widowed twice, with two daughters, she met her future husband, Adolph de Hoernle. What began as a friendship while attending events in New York City turned into a romance. Her new suitor was founder of the Stewart Stamping Company in Yonkers, NY, and a count with a bloodline dating back to the 1200s. After they were married they enjoyed sailing across the globe several times before settling in Boca Raton, Fla. in 1981.
Sharing a generous nature, the de Hoernles began a legendary philanthropic venture which would affect South Florida for years to come.
Dr. Chuck Laser, a dear friend of the Countess as well as a member of the Northwood University Florida Campus Board of Governors, remarked, "I consider the Countess one of my closest friends in life. Knowing her has brought me additional wisdom when it comes to making good judgments in the world of philanthropy and otherwise. The Countess is an unselfish and wise person who knows the importance of giving youth an opportunity through a good education. She is one of the most patriotic Americans I have ever known. Countess de Hoernle has helped thousands of people with a heart of gold, but always uses wisdom in her decision making process. Her contribution to Northwood in Florida is unparalleled and made it possible to expand the Florida Campus in way which positively affects students and their careers all over the world. There are not enough words to describe the good she has done throughout her life to help others. I am honored to know and have her as a friend," he said.
Now able to sit back and take pleasure in watching others 'sparkle' as they enjoy the rewards that come from reaching out, the Countess reflected on the significance of Northwood University's mission. "In my opinion, Northwood University is a very valuable institution, as it educates students to create fruitful business relations, which plays a major role in preventing war," she said. "Having been able to support causes such as this and to help the sick, the poor, and the youth who are anxious to study has been a privilege. It has been most rewarding to help others realize their full potential. Not only monetary gifts, but time given freely with love to so many, makes reaching out incredibly meaningful," she said.
"As I stroll Northwood's campus, I'm reminded on a daily basis of the effect that one person with a generous heart can have on so many. Our Countess de Hoernle Student Life Center is only a few years old, but I can't count the number of times I've heard students share stories relating to precious moments they've shared at the facility. From the beaming faces of athletes who made game winning plays in front of their families, to a first kiss shared on the bleachers, the impact of Countess de Hoernle's generosity will live on forever," smiled Dr. Rose Bellanca, Northwood University Florida Campus provost.
Susan McCreery
