UConn alum Austin Bebyn ’86 (PHARM) spent his career helping others. Now, he has recently retired after decades as a pharmacist, and his commitment to service continues.
Bebyn is giving back to the place that laid the foundation for his career: UConn School of Pharmacy. Through a charitable gift annuity, he is supporting a scholarship fund to help future pharmacy students.
“It’s a win-win,” he said, reflecting on his decision to establish a gift annuity that provides financial security in retirement while creating opportunities for generations to come. “The University gets the investment to provide scholarships, and I get income during my lifetime. I wanted to leave a legacy, and this is how I can do that.”
Bebyn’s journey began at UConn’s former campus in Torrington, where he built lifelong connections and developed a passion for pharmacy. After 20 years in the pharmaceutical industry, he found renewed purpose in community pharmacy, helping patients navigate medications and health decisions.
“I really liked the interaction with people,” he said. “The clients were so appreciative of the support. It felt good to know I was helping them.”
“Pharmacists are important because we are at the front line for people who are seeking medical care,” explains Bebyn. “People are going to go to the pharmacist first because they know we’re there, we have an ongoing rapport with them. I want to make sure there are still enough people out there to do that work.”
For those considering a gift annuity, his advice is simple: “Don’t be afraid to talk about planned giving. It makes financial sense, and beyond that, you are making a difference.”
Don’t be afraid to talk about planned giving. It makes financial sense, and beyond that, you are making a difference.