Many of us choose to leave estate gifts to organizations that are like family to us. These may include our churches, colleges, or other non-profit organizations where we have deep ties and long involvement over the courses of our lives.

Being a part of the Saint Elizabeth University family, you may have already included the college in your estate plans—if so, thank you! Long-term planning by many of our alumni and friends has led to gifts that have transformed our campus, strengthened our scholarship offerings, and increased our endowment.

Here are four compelling reasons to disclose your gift intention to the college now:

1. So we can say “Thank you!”
   Many donors who plan to leave an estate gift to the college are modest about their intentions. We learn of immensely generous gifts only after individuals die and we receive notifications from their estate attorneys. At that point, it’s too late for us to let these alumni and friends know how grateful we are, stay in touch through calls and cards, and include them in honor rolls* and celebrations such as our annual President’s Council Luncheon.
2. Clarify how you would like your gift to be used.
   Did you know that you can designate how you would like your gift to be used? You may prefer that the money go towards a named capital improvement or scholarship, for example. If you are a loyal annual giver, you may want to create an endowment that lets your annual gift be given in perpetuity. When we are aware of your intentions, we can discuss these options with you, ensure your estate paperwork includes appropriate language, and execute a proper gift agreement that states your intentions clearly.
3. Count your gift.
   When certain conditions are met, we can count your gift intention toward our college fundraising goals. This does more than benefit our financial planning; it is a measure of our confidence and success as a community in supporting our mission. The more others know that you have invested in the future of SEU, the more likely they will be inspired to include the college in their estate plans. Again, we will always respect your wishes for privacy in your intentions.
4. Ensure your intentions are carried out. 
   One of the conditions for counting a gift—and a good idea in all cases—is to share documentation of your gift with us, such as a page from your will or a copy of your retirement plan beneficiary designation. This enables our team in the Advancement Office to be proactive in ensuring that your wishes are carried out. For example, gifts from retirement plans often require administrative follow-through on our part. Knowing your intentions helps expedite this process and ensure the timely release of your gift.

Share your intentions!

To talk more about your gift to the Saint Elizabeth University or how to include the Saint Elizabeth University in your estate plans, please contact Andrea M. Adams, Director of Advancement, at 973-290-4711 or aadams@steu.edu.

Learn more about giving through your estate.

* Even if you would like to remain anonymous as a planned gift donor, we can still thank you individually and enjoy a deepened relationship with you.