Creating a will is an essential part of securing your legacy and your family’s future. A gift by will, otherwise known as a bequest, can be any shape and any size. What matters is that your gift fits you and your unique family and financial circumstances. Over the years, bequests have provided Brandeis with invaluable support, which have strengthened our community, curriculum, and campus.

Any Shape

With a charitable bequest you can specify a dollar amount or a certain percentage of your estate. Or you can leave a specific piece of property, such as a noteworthy collection or a piece of real estate. 

Any Size

Sometimes people think bequest gifts have to be very large or that they have to be rich to make one. Nothing could be further from the truth. Brandeis has received bequest gifts of all sizes. Everything we achieve together is only made possible through philanthropy. Even modest sized gifts make a difference. What matters is that you pick the size that works for you and for your family. 

If You Would Like to Remember Brandeis in Your Will

Here is an example of bequest language which you can share with your attorney:

“I give, devise and bequeath to Brandeis University, a qualified 501(c)(3) charitable organization located in Waltham, Massachusetts, _____ percent of my residual estate [or - a specific bequest of $__________,] for its general purposes.”

We can provide further assistance if you would like your gift to impact a particular area.

We Can Help

Please contact Joel Carlton-Gysan (jcarltongysan@brandeis.edu or 781-736-7719) to learn how a charitable gift can match your goals, values, and create a lasting legacy at Brandeis. We also strongly encourage you to consult with your advisors or with your counsel.