A Lifelong Love of Learning
Dr. William Jernigan '61, right, with Dedman College Scholar Cole Fontenot, a sophomore from Tennessee majoring in economics, political science and philosophy.
As a student, Dr. William Jernigan '61 excelled. His academic prowess earned an SMU scholarship, sparking his lifelong commitment to academic excellence and Southern Methodist University.
After receiving his undergraduate degree in political science from SMU, he went on to earn a Ph.D. and embark on a 40-year career in governmental management. He and his late wife, Marian, pursued the majority of their careers in government and education in North Texas.
In preparing for the future, they agreed that higher education would be their beneficiary and made provisions to divide their estate equally between their undergraduate alma maters. Dr. Jernigan considers "education as my heir" through a bequest originally made 20 years ago, which he recently updated.
He also supports SMU's Dedman College Scholars Program, which provides unique learning opportunities for academically gifted students. Through IRA qualified charitable distributions, he makes these gifts each year in a tax-advantaged manner.
In establishing his legacy at SMU, Dr. Jernigan notes that "anybody should recognize the value of a good education and how it can benefit their careers and society overall." Thanks to his foresight, the University that rewarded his academic achievement will support motivated students for years to come.
Like Dr. Jernigan, you, too, can provide for SMU's future through your will or estate plan. Contact SMU's Office of Gift Planning at 214-768-1911 or giftplanning@smu.edu to learn how.