Celebrating UConn’s legacy donors
Planned gifts are powerful testaments to belief in UConn’s future. The Charles Lewis Beach Society honors those who have made legacy commitments in their lifetime — transformative gifts that will shape the University for generations.
This proud tradition began in the early 1900s with President Charles Lewis Beach, who honored his late wife Louise by bequeathing a curated art collection and a generous endowment. Today, we celebrate more than 700 visionary donors who continue this legacy of impact.
Meet Donald and Jean Reefe
Donald Reefe and his wife Jean made a generous $1.5 million bequest to UConn School of Medicine in honor of the life-saving care he received, fueling cardiology innovation, research, and education.
Because of Charles Lewis Beach Society
33%
One-third of total campaign dollars raised have been planned gifts as of June 30, 2025
716
716 members, with 53 new members welcomed in FY25
48%
48% of members invest in UConn through loyal annual support
Members receive a welcome upon entry, an annual impact report, and exclusive society communications and event invitations throughout their lifetime.
Questions
Tory Flynn
Associate Director of Donor Recognition