Ralph Waldo Emerson Society

The teachings and philosophy of Ralph Waldo Emerson are at the heart of Southwestern College: a reverence for nature and thought; the relational nature of all things in the universe; and the idea that spiritual truth is derived from nature. Emerson proclaimed nature the resource through which individuals could restore “original and eternal” beauty to their world and achieve redemption and personal transformation. The goal is discovering and keeping true to one’s identity while accepting that one’s identity must be constructed in relation to persons, events and all things in nature. Faith in individualism, nature and social reform fosters the capacity to find good in all things.

The Ralph Waldo Emerson Society is a new legacy society formed to recognize those donors who have made a bequest to Southwestern College in their wills. Bequests are a main source of endowment support at Southwestern College. Each individual legacy has contributed to the College’s financial stability over the years. The continuation of this tradition of remembrance will ensure that there will be a financially strong and academically excellent Southwestern College for many years to come. If you have not already done so, please consider putting Southwestern College in your will or revocable trust.

Bequests

Put Southwestern College in your will
Bequests are a main source of endowment support at Southwestern College. Each individual legacy has contributed to the College’s financial stability over the years. The continuation of this tradition of remembrance will ensure that there will be a financially strong and academically excellent Southwestern College for many years to come. If you have not already done so, please consider putting Southwestern College in your will or revocable trust.

Types of Bequests
You can give almost any type of asset to Southwestern College through a bequest, including cash, securities, an interest in real estate (such as a residence), tangible personal property (such as works of art or antiques), or the remainder of your IRA, Keogh, tax-sheltered annuity, qualified pension or profit-sharing plan. Ask your attorney about your bequest options, such as residuary bequests, contingent bequests, testamentary trusts, and Qtip trusts.

Tax Benefits
A bequest is generally deductible for federal estate tax purposes, and there is generally no limit on the amount of the estate tax charitable deduction. In addition, bequests generally are not subject to state inheritance or estate taxes. In a large estate, the savings can be more than half the value of the bequest. Ask your accountant about tax implications.