“If everyone gives at whatever level they can, it adds up to make a huge difference.”
Kari Diamond Kayiatos ’01 was raised to understand that philanthropy is important, but it wasn’t until she began working in a development office that she truly understood the effect. “Working behind the scenes, I could see what an impact people’s gifts could make on every aspect — students, teachers, facilities. Seeing firsthand how estate gifts build the endowment motivated me to include Hamilton as a beneficiary of my retirement plan.”
With insight into the impact of planned giving, Kari decided to make good on her promise, leaving a percentage of her estate to Hamilton. “This is an easy way to create a legacy. We live long lives, work hard, and want to enjoy our success. Planned giving is a great melding of all of that. We can have what we want, and save, and make a gift.”
Kari was lucky enough to be able to afford her education, but fully understands that so many students need the support of others. “Entrance shouldn't be based on whether you can afford it. They earned it, they deserve it, we need to support it.”