Duke students on West Campus | Photo: Duke U Photography

Blueprints Blog

Gift planning insights to build a plan for your future

The Gift Planning Blueprints blog offers planning insights, charitable giving news and stories of inspiration to help you plan for your future.

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When economic conditions shift, so do the tools individuals use for long-term financial planning and decision-making. In the current economic climate, factors like rising inflation and increased cost-of-living expenses are driving new conversations with donors seeking charitable solutions. One strategy gaining traction in recent months involves the testamentary charitable remainder unitrust (CRUT). Testamentary CRUTs are […]

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In May, more than 150 alumni and friends of Duke gathered at the Washington Duke Inn in Durham for the annual Tower Society Luncheon—an event that celebrates those who have chosen to support the university’s future with a gift through their estate or other long-term plans. The event featured remarks by Dr. Walter Sinnott-Armstrong, Chauncey […]

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As the possibility of a recession looms, there has been a lot of uncertainty in virtually every sector of the current economic landscape, including that of philanthropy. Recent market volatility poses concern for many individuals in terms of their giving to the institutions and charitable organizations they love.   While nonprofit leaders consider creative strategies to […]

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When we think about making a difference, many of us focus on the immediate term. Yet, what if you could make an impact that extends far beyond your lifetime? A charitable bequest to Duke University offers you the chance to leave a legacy that will benefit future generations of students, faculty, patients and programs.  Investing […]

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Philanthropy plays a crucial role in bridging funding gaps and fostering innovation in universities and academic medicine. It enhances medical education, advances research, and improves patient care, allowing these institutions to thrive despite various challenges. Within MADE FOR THIS: The Duke Campaign, key priorities address pressing global issues and prepare future health care professionals to […]

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Dean Emerita Wilson’s gift will fund an international visiting professorship and Duke’s Center for Nursing Research, to be renamed in her honor. Duke University alumna and Dean Emerita Ruby L. Wilson, EdD’69, MSN, RN, FAAN, provided the Duke School of Nursing with a generous gift of $4.1 million through her estate. This impactful contribution will […]

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Duke University recently launched the most ambitious fundraising and engagement campaign in its history. MADE FOR THIS: The Duke Campaign will engage alumni and friends of the university to accelerate progress in areas where Duke can make the greatest difference in the world—advancing innovation through science and technology, creating a more sustainable planet, shaping students […]

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The African American community has a strong tradition of giving its time, talent, and treasure to others. Historically, these gifts have gone to churches, a donor’s alma mater, and civic organizations such as the Urban League and NAACP.  According to the 2016 U.S. Trust Study of High Net-Worth Philanthropy, African American households give 25% more […]

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Estate planning can help ensure your assets benefit both your loved ones and your philanthropic priorities. Designating Duke University as a beneficiary of a retirement account, life insurance policy, or donor-advised fund (DAF) can reduce taxes for your heirs while leaving a lasting legacy at Duke.  Retirement Accounts: Minimizing Taxes, Maximizing Impact  Retirement assets are […]

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It’s a new year – a time for reflection, resolutions and rejuvenation. We find ourselves setting goals and making plans for the next twelve months: “Exercise more.”  “Save more money.”  “Take up pickleball.” As uncomfortable, morbid or depressing as it may sound (perhaps even the antithesis of a happy new year), you may want to […]

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Challenging times
demand action

Massive cuts to federal funding are affecting Duke as hundreds of millions of dollars previously used for research are no longer available. Still, the university is committed to maintaining our core values of respect, trust, inclusion, discovery, and excellence.

How can you help? Please consider donating to a fund that will enable Duke’s leaders to address the immediate challenges and opportunities facing us right now.