A New Tradition for College of Charleston Legacy Donors

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To celebrate its 250 planned giving donors, the College of Charleston will hold its inaugural Legacy Day on March 1, 2025.

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Porter's Lodge

The College of Charleston is re-envisioning traditions like Homecoming and trying new activities on for size to see what excites its base of alumni and donors. The most recent new activity is Legacy Day, slated for March 1, 2025, to further engage donors who support the College through their estate plans.

Marking the 30th annual gathering of these planned giving donors, Legacy Day will expand on the traditional Cistern Society and Porter’s Circle Luncheon, and will include the following activities:

  • Coffee and Conversation, from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Simons Center Recital Hall, will be a guided discussion with university leaders about the campus’ physical master plan. The discussion will be led by John Loonan, executive vice president for business affairs and chief financial officer. 
  • Cistern Society and Porter’s Circle Luncheon, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Simons Center, will recognize new and existing donors in these societies. The lunch features a panel discussion lead by Suzanne Austin, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost, focusing on how the College is elevating its level of national distinction.
  • C You at the Cistern Tailgate Party, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Cistern Yard, will celebrate the last men’s basketball regular season home game. Tailgate goodies, activities and live music are included in the festivities. Register to attend the C You at the Cistern Tailgate Party 
  • CofC vs. Campbell men’s basketball game will tip off at 6 p.m. in TD Arena.

​“Planned giving donors are forward-thinking partners in the College of Charleston’s future, ensuring that our tradition of excellence thrives for generations to come,” says Peggy Cieslikowski, executive director of advancement strategic initiatives. “A gift through your will or estate plan is an easy yet powerful way to leave a lasting impact. Through Legacy Day, we proudly celebrate these visionary supporters and the enduring difference they make.”  

The 250 Cistern Society and Porter’s Circle donors are collectively contributing an estimated future total of $145 million through their wills or trusts to myriad areas across campus.

In the last year, 11 alumni and friends have joined the Cistern Society and Porter’s Circle: Pamela and Tom E. Burkart ’69, Kathleen Hancock ’80, Justin Herp ’15, Hillary Hutchinson, Vicki Miller, Bill S. Mortin, II ’85, Travis L. ODell ’10, Kevin and Stacey Reynolds ’83, Margaret and Bob Seidler, George Sheer and Betty J. Thalheimer.

If you are interested in including the College in your estate plan, please contact gift planning officer Andi Judt to be included in this year’s Legacy Day. The College wants to recognize and celebrate you!   

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