Shaping Your Earlham Legacy Through the Circle of Friends

Many alumni and friends often recognize Earlham’s role in shaping their lives. However, not all are aware of the numerous personal and institutional benefits in joining the Circle of Friends by simply including Earlham and Earlham School of Religion in their estate planning. In fact, one of the most enduring ways to support Earlham is through planned giving, which can take shape in a variety of ways at any income level.

For example, Tom Kenworthy ’56 was described as a “warm and easy-going” man with a “delightful sense of humor,” and his love and care for Earlham continues even after his lifetime through an estate gift. Quakerism was a central part of his life and education, including his time at Sidwell Friends School before attending Earlham College and his longtime involvement as a member of Atlanta Friends Meeting. By establishing endowed scholarships at the College and ESR through his will, his generous educational support will impact many future generations.

Martha (Marty) Sykes Hansen ’59 also recognized the importance of supporting Earlham through estate planning—through an unrestricted gift, in her case. After earning her Earlham degree in environmental biology and her master’s at Michigan State, Marty’s career went on to include Peace Corps service, longtime work with the National Audubon Society and a strong love of nature and birdwatching throughout her life and retirement. In her will, Marty left her farm to Earlham for use at the College’s discretion. The Board of Trustees used the gift to create an endowed scholarship and an endowed chair in ornithology in her name—thus honoring her memory by matching her interests and personal passions with the current needs of the College.

Like Tom’s and Marty’s stories, planned giving provides meaningful and lasting support to Earlham and can be tailored to meet the circumstances and intentions of each donor. Upon joining the Circle of Friends, donors receive immediate and ongoing benefits, including annual reports, invitations to special in-person and virtual events, an invitation to the President’s Tea, and other opportunities for connection, engagement and recognition. It’s never too early to learn how you can make Earlham part of your lasting legacy!

Ensuring Earlham’s Long-Term Success

The Earlham Circle of Friends recognizes alumni and friends who have invested in the future of Earlham College and Earlham School of Religion through planned gifts. These individuals have included the College and/or ESR in their estate planning, irrevocable life-income arrangements or retirement plans for which Earlham is a beneficiary.

To learn more about joining the Circle of Friends, please contact Gail Connerley at 765-983-1439 or gailc@earlham.edu today.