In the early fifties, Crawford ’55 and Gloria (’55) Pierce found something special in Union College. In addition to meeting each other in 1953, they also discovered their love for Union. Like many college students, they worked hard to afford a Christian education. Now after almost 50 years, they continue to be committed to each other and share their enthusiasm about Union College with everyone they meet.
“Union produces great leaders,” Crawford declares. “We are interested in supporting the college any way we can.” One of the many ways the Pierces have dedicated their lives to serve the college is by establishing an endowed scholarship.
“It is a wonderful feeling to see a student receive a scholarship and know that our fund will live on forever,” states Crawford.
The Pierces developed their first endowment in 1989 with the donation of a car lot and a plot of land they owned near the college. They have recently chosen to increase their giving to Union College by donating a commercial building to fund a charitable remainder unitrust. This planned giving option provides them with a lifetime income, and at the end of their lives, the remainder will then be added to their existing scholarship fund.
The Pierces’ firm belief in Union College has caused them to trust not only their financial gifts but also their family to its care. Two of their children and most of their grandchildren have attended Union at some point.
“Union is a family,” Gloria observes. “The students, faculty and staff share a kindness that can only be found in the Midwest.” The Pierce “family” continues to grow as they become acquainted with as many as 10 students a year who receive their scholarships.
Through planned giving, the Pierces have fulfilled their lifelong mission to support Union College. Their commitment comes naturally, generated by a genuine belief in the opportunities Union College gives to its students. “I will never regret being associated with Union College,” Gloria says. “Union will always be our first love.”
To find out more about planned giving, see our giving opportunities.