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Your Legacy Deserves Planning

Did you know you can support WMU while also benefiting your loved ones? Through planned giving, you can make a lasting difference for Western and for Broncos, igniting their potential and powering their purpose for years to come.

The Office of Gift Planning at WMU can work with you to craft a plan that meets your financial and philanthropic goals. Whether you wish to support Western Michigan University, WMed or WMUK, we can help you achieve your vision and realize greater peace of mind.

Save on taxes by donating appreciated stocks, bonds or mutual funds. Give life insurance you no longer need or reduce estate taxes and eliminate capital gains through strategic gifts.

Good planning can mean everything, and we’ll guide you every step of the way. What kind of Bronco legacy do you want to leave?

Explore all the options

Freewill

Ready to explore FreeWill?

The Western Michigan University Foundation has partnered with FreeWill, an online tool that guides you through the process of creating a legally valid will. It’s easy to use, free of charge, and can be completed in 20 minutes or less.

Yes, I'm ready to make my will→

 


Resource Library

 

 

Have you already arranged for a gift to WMU in your will or trust?

 Let us know 

Let us know so we can welcome you into our 1903 Society.

 

Tax-Savvy Ways to Amplify Your Impact

Here are just two ways you can amplify your impact at WMU and save on your taxes:

  1. Give from your IRA: If you’re 70½ or older, you’re eligible to direct a tax-free gift from your IRA to support WMU. When you’re 73, doing so may count toward your required minimum distribution.

  2. Donate appreciated stocks: Making a gift of appreciated securities or mutual funds to WMU offers you the chance to support our students and our work, as well as realize important benefits for yourself. You can reduce or eliminate capital gains tax and receive a charitable deduction for the fair market value of the gift. Download transfer instructions here(Please be sure to call or email us if you plan to donate stock.)

 

Learn More 

Video Spotlight

How New Secure Act Provides Tax Benefits To Donors


 

We're Here for You

We share your passion for Western Michigan University and would love the opportunity to work with you to build your Bronco legacy. Please feel free to contact us with questions or for more information on planned giving.

 

Jennifer Yelovina, CFRE, CAP®

Sr. Director of Gift Planning and Principal Gifts

(269) 387-8791 

jennifer.yelovina@wmich.edu

Jennifer Yelovina Headshot

David Bernard, MBA  

Assistant Director of Gift Planning

(269) 387-8793 

david.r.bernard@wmich.edu

David Bernard Headshot

Hardy Figueroa

Alumni Relations Officer

(269) 387-8774

hardy.figueroa@wmich.edu

Hardy Figueroa Headshot

Ashley Schneider

Administrative Assistant Senior

(269) 387-8700

ashley.schneider@wmich.edu

Ashley Schneider