Planned Giving
Investing in the Next Generation of Educators
When Donna Valponi Brookhart '76 attended the University of Dayton, she had a career of great impact in mind as an elementary school teacher focused on bilingual education. "I received tremendous support at UD for my choice of profession," she said.
Her dream came true - but didn't last long. A few years into her teaching career, funding for bilingual education dried up in Kansas City, where she had laid roots. This forced her to consider another career path.
She spoke Spanish fluently, which helped her obtain a job in the international division of Hallmark Cards. Her corporate career skyrocketed, culminating in her retirement in 2016 as senior vice president of marketing at the second largest medical association in the country.
"When I went into corporate America, I realized that I could still make an impact. I wasn't teaching, but I still think I influenced people in a good way, especially women," she said.
Donna's early love of - and respect for - teaching always stuck with her though. "I still think it's the most important thing you can offer kids, especially inner-city ones."
This lifelong passion for teaching has woven its way into her and her husband John's philanthropic priorities, inspiring them to include the University of Dayton in their will . Their gift will provide scholarship support to tomorrow's educators.
When asked why she chose to include UD in her estate plan, she said, "I think of the elements of service UD instilled in us, the sense of community on campus and the value of living a faith-based life. Those traditions are important."
Donna also referred to her faith in UD's future. "I feel very good about the strength and longevity of the University," she said.
She and her husband felt that a gift made through their will was the best option for them, given that they retain full ownership of their assets throughout their lifetime. "If we need to make changes to take care of ourselves as we get older, we have that flexibility," she said.
Beyond this benefit, including UD in your estate plan often doesn't cost anything right away and creates a lasting legacy, whether you choose to provide a path forward for future educators or ensure that students with great promise, but limited resources, can walk through UD's doors.
You can give students access to a better education with a gift made through your will , too. We have simple, free tools to help you develop a giving strategy that is designed to fit your needs.
For your complimentary, no-obligation guide to estate planning, please contact the Office of Planned Giving at 937-229-4484 or [email protected].
If you have already included the University of Dayton in your will or estate plan, please let us know so we can properly recognize your commitment.
