The University of Toledo

Don and Connie Warner Prefer to Be 'Net Givers' in Life

Don and Connie Warner have accumulated a host of fond memories through their long relationship with The University of Toledo: They’ve received excellent educations, taken part in rewarding extracurricular activities and enjoyed cheering on the Rockets at
sporting events.
  
So while considering a bequest to the University, they wanted to keep in mind a “holistic view” of their UT experience. Consequently, their significant gift to UT was designed to benefit three different areas: academics (through scholarships and a lecture series in the College of Engineering), athletics, and the UT Alumni Association.

The three elements of their planned gift, notes Mr. Warner, are meant to enhance the University’s ability to offer a similarly well-rounded and fulfilling experience for generations of UT students.

Mr. Warner, a retired vice president of SSOE, Inc., graduated from UT in 1976 with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. Mrs. Warner also attended UT, receiving certification in ultrasound and radiology technology. They agree that supporting UT’s academic programs needed to be a key part of their estate plan. “We see formal education as critically important to the survival and advancement of mankind,” Mr. Warner said.
 
In addition, the Warners feel UT’s athletic programs also offer far-reaching benefits. “Athletics is important because it broadens the university experience for students, alumni and community,” he said, “simultaneously connecting the University to others.”

The University’s ability to connect with the community is further strengthened by the Alumni Association, the Warners believe. “The Alumni Association is the primary tool for keeping different generations of UT graduates connected and engaged with the University. It plays a critical role in promoting and maintaining the University’s continuity and growth over time,” said Mr. Warner. “Every alumnus has benefited from the many alumni that went before them, and in our opinion, has a special responsibility to those who follow. Not all alumni answer the call, but without a vibrant alumni association, far fewer would be engaged and involved.”
 
The Warners believe that any success they have had, financially or otherwise, can be largely attributed to what they learned and experienced during their time at UT. Through their planned gift, and the creation of four new endowed funds, they hope to make an immediate and lasting difference for students, the institution and the community.

“Over time, we have come to the realization that the value of our collective time at UT was greater than the dollars spent on tuition and other expenses. Without giving back, all we have done is exhibit a skill in taking—from what life and experience have to offer,” said Mr. Warner. “We don’t want to be ‘net takers’ in life. We prefer to be ‘net givers.’ ”
 

The Warners’ bequest is just one of many planned giving vehicles available to UT donors, notes Nancy Koerner, UT director of planned giving. “Multiple methods exist which can complement an individual’s personal, financial, and family objectives, lifetime needs, and philanthropic goals.,” she said. In addition, it is a giving option available to anyone, regardless of age or affluence.
 
“There are many simple and effective ways to plan a future gift,” she said, “yet still gain the immediate satisfaction of knowing it will impact UT and the causes and programs you value.”
 
For more information, contact Ms. Koerner at nancy.koerner@utoledo.edu or 419-530-5412.