Philanthropist Ann B. Barshinger, known for her generous contributions to numerous projects and initiatives in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, passed away on Sunday (July 21) at the age of 100. Born in September 1923, Barshinger lived through significant historical events including the Great Depression, World War II, the Korean Conflict, Vietnam Conflict, 9/11, and 17 U.S. presidencies.
Barshinger, who grew up on a farm near Glen Rock in York County, donated millions of dollars to projects in arts, theater, medicine, and education. She moved to Lancaster County in 2000 and lived at Willow Valley Communities in West Lampeter Township, where she spent her final days.
One of her most notable contributions was to the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, part of Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health. The institute, which opened in 2013, is a two-story, 70,000-square-foot center that houses the Proton Therapy Center.
In addition to the cancer institute, Barshinger's philanthropic reach extended to beneficiaries including Welsh Mountain Medical and Dental Center, VisionCorps, Ephrata Performing Arts Center, Fulton Theatre, Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, and the Lancaster Theological Seminary. She also endowed the $4 million Ann Boyd Barshinger Scholarship Fund, which supports tuition at Franklin & Marshall College for deserving students from Lancaster and York counties.
Barshinger's generosity was not limited to financial contributions. She was known for her time spent with her nieces and nephews as they grew up and her support for local community projects. Her legacy will continue to impact the Lancaster County community for years to come.