Gilda Mann Zimmet '89

As Bryn Mawr students, we live in the moment – really absorbing all that Bryn Mawr has to offer. For me, it has been in my years as a young alumna that I have had the chance to step back and say, "Wow, Bryn Mawr had such an impact on my life." I always tell people that without a doubt, my Bryn Mawr years were the most formative years of my life. At this time, that realization can be backed up by both annual giving and planned giving. Whenever I come back to campus, I am flooded with memories that inspire me to give back to Bryn Mawr.

Regarding planned giving, I must disclose that I am an estate planning attorney and had a will prepared sooner than others. The act of estate planning is about taking care of your family and the organizations and institutions that shaped you. There is a standard clause in most wills that says, in effect, pay my debts. Well, I am indebted to Bryn Mawr, not in the traditional sense of indebtedness, but in ways that made me want to leave something to Bryn Mawr in my will. In my case, it is a simple bequest, but there are many ways to make a planned gift. Everyone who knows me knows that I love Bryn Mawr. Twelve great years yielded lasting friendships, intellectual growth, and wonderful relationships with teachers.

To young alumnae, I would say that you shouldn't wait to have a will and that remembering Bryn Mawr in your will can be very easy, whether the amount or percentage you are bequeathing is small or large. Certainly, as you accumulate assets during your lifetime, you may be in a position to increase your bequest. Often bequests can benefit family members and Bryn Mawr at the same time. I would also say that planned giving is not just for the rich; it is for anyone who wishes to express gratitude for her experiences and learning at Bryn Mawr, even if the size of the gift is modest.