www.union.plannedgifts.org
Linda Klein '80 considers Union College the starting point of her success in life.
Linda majored in political science at Union and then received her law degree from Washington and Lee University. She currently practices as co-managing shareholder in the Atlanta office of Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC, one of the nation's 100 largest law firms. Named one of the Top 50 Women Lawyers in Georgia annually since 2004 by Atlanta Magazine, she is the only woman to have served as President of the State Bar of Georgia.
"Union College prepared me for my career, and I'm very appreciative of that," Linda said.
She was brought up to believe that charitable giving should be done quietly rather than draw attention to the donor. The idea of encouraging other women to make financial plans—and hopefully include Union in those plans—helped her overcome her reluctance to talk about her bequest to the College.
"I chose to give back to Union through my estate plan," Linda said. "That's one of the easiest ways to make a gift. In addition to the convenience, you don't have to worry about giving away money you might require for present or future needs. You still have control of these assets during your life. Afterwards, they help Union." In most cases, a simple change to your will can add such a bequest and does not require rewriting the will.
Linda encourages other alumni to consider a bequest to Union. "They should realize that much of what they've accomplished in life was made possible by their education," she said. "I feel privileged to have received an education at Union College, and I'd like to make it possible for others to have the same opportunity."