Donor gift planning strategies make impact today and tomorrow

Steadfast in their commitment to the University of Montana, alumni and friends included 137 gifts to the UM Foundation in their will, trust or by beneficiary designation during Campaign Montana.

These donations, along with other planned gifts such as charitable gift annuities and charitable remainder trusts, will provide an estimated $110 million in future support to UM.

One couple whose comprehensive giving plan includes both current and future gifts is Don ’64 and Suzanne Johnson. They wanted to ensure the life-changing opportunities offered at UM are accessible to everyone, not just those who can afford it. Inspired by UM’s commitment to student success and experiential learning opportunities, they chose to support high-achieving students who are striving to improve their communities and environments.

The Johnsons have established funds for scholarships and internships that will begin making a difference now, while generous gifts from their estate will enhance those funds even further.

“We did it that way because it was important to us that we initiate some impact of our giving during our lifetime,” Don said.