Preparing Students for Years to Come

In 2012 when Marilyn Jestes ’64 received an inheritance, she wanted to do something meaningful with a portion of the funds. She thought of her alma mater—Houghton University. It had been 48 years since Marilyn graduated.

In the early 1960s Marilyn came to Houghton to study pre-med and zoology with a writing minor.

“I certainly got a good education at Houghton,” Marilyn said. “It provided a solid academic foundation and expanded my world view.”

Marilyn used that foundation as a launching point for an exciting career. She earned her graduate degree in medical technology at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit and worked for many years as a medical technologist before teaching at the community college level.

In between her work in the United States, Marilyn was called to serve as a missionary overseas. She spent a couple of years in Kathmandu, Nepal. She took short-term mission trips to train local men to work in health clinics. Marilyn also spent two years teaching English in China.

The final leg of Marilyn’s professional career included a position as a mental health caseworker back in her hometown of Roulette, Pennsylvania.

“When my mom died, I came into some money,” Marilyn shared. “I wanted to tithe a portion of it. Education is a good way to multiply one’s giving. You never know who is going to benefit and do something remarkable.”

Marilyn spoke to Houghton’s Gift Planning Manager Ellen Woolley and inquired about establishing an annuity agreement with the college. Ellen provided an illustration and a summary of the requirements for annuities in Pennsylvania. By December the paperwork was signed.

“An annuity provides advantages to both parties,” Marilyn shared. “I received a tax break and some income.”

Upon Marilyn’s death, Houghton will receive the principal balance of the annuity fund as a charitable contribution. Her gift will strengthen the foundation of the college that launched her professional career and prepared her for service. Gifts like hers ensure that Houghton will continue to prepare students—academically and spiritually—for years to come.

To learn more about gift annuities or other gift planning instruments available through Houghton University, contact the Office of Gift Planning at 585-567-9545 today.