Planned Giving
Meet Our Donors
Tapping the Cash Value of Life Insurance
George Lilley '61
There are times in life when the care, support and interest of one person can have a huge influence on the person we become. For me, that person was Richard Boekenkamp, Head of the Science Department at Episcopal. I entered Episcopal in the Second Form (8th grade) and it soon became apparent that academically, I lagged behind my classmates. I recall being called into his office, where he inquired about my school work. In hindsight I recognize that he was a very good listener and as a counselor, he gave me the support I needed to persevere. He was the one person I felt able to confide in. I know it was through his constant attention and support that I made it through EA.
Mr. Boekenkamp was the guidance counselor responsible for helping my class apply to college. I matriculated at Ursinus College, my studies improved, and I kept in touch with Mr. Boekenkamp. When I decided to pursue a Master's degree he put me in contact with the Higher Education Department at Ohio State University, where he was enrolled in the Ph.D. geology program. We remained friends throughout his life. I went on to get a Ph.D. in higher education, work in college administration, and hold senior posts in behavioral health care administration.
Two years ago I celebrated my 50th reunion at Episcopal. I looked forward to seeing former classmates, faculty, and the new campus, and I wanted to support our class's 50th reunion fund. When I learned I could use a life insurance policy to support the fund, I was intrigued. My grandparents had bought an insurance policy for me when I was very young. Over the years its value, both face and cash, had increased. I met with Episcopal staff and shared that I had a paid-up policy with substantial cash value that I no longer needed. With the help of Carolyn Jaeger, EA's Director of Planned Giving, and my insurance agent, the transfer of ownership of the policy was easily effected and the school was able to surrender the policy for its cash value.
Making the decision to support the class's reunion fund involved my desire to help ensure that future students would be able to experience not only the excellence of an Episcopal education, but also the kind, attentive support of her faculty. I recognize that our lives are full of serendipitous intersections and coincidences that shape us. The sacrifice of my parents allowing me to go to Episcopal, how it influenced me, and the personal attention I received from Dr. Boekenkamp were gifts that continue to enrich my life.