Hobart and William Smith Colleges Athletics

A biology and chemistry major, Ray was a member of the junior class and science honor societies at Hobart. He earned varsity letters in both football and lacrosse. As a senior midfielder, Van Giesen captained the Hobart lacrosse team and earned All-American honors in both his junior and senior seasons. At the conclusion of his playing days, Ray became very involved in officiating college lacrosse, eventually becoming the chief official for Upstate New York. He was inducted into the Upstate New York Lacrosse Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding play at Hobart and for his contributions to the game as an official.

Van Giesen pursued a career in public education starting out as a science teacher in 1931 and retiring 30 years later as a superintendent. Among his many achievements as a school administrator was the leadership he provided in the merger of the Fayetteville and Manlius school districts.

Ray is a Life Member of the SAA and a generous donor to projects such as the Bristol Field House, the Scandling Center, and the Melly Academic Center. In 1981 he was recognized with an Alumni Citation from the Hobart Alumni Council and in 1988 Van Giesen received the prestigious Hobart Medal of Excellence.

Following his retirement from public education, Van Giesen served as a consultant for the Central City Business Institute.