Together, William W. Johnston, MD’59, and Charles R. West have a more than half a century of combined service to Duke University. To be in their presence is to be regaled by one astonishing and often hilarious story after another. And yet they say their most recent undertaking—establishing an estate gift that will endow a […]

When you created your estate plan, you considered how your bank accounts, real estate, investment and retirement assets, and liabilities should be managed at the time of your passing. You named an executor of your will, a guardian for your minor children, and even provided for generous donations to charity. Your estate plan is complete. Or […]

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, growing numbers of American couples are deciding to cohabitate rather than marry. While this choice is personal and valid, it is also important to understand what legal and financial risks you may be taking by choosing not to marry. This Fidelity article addresses common financial and estate planning issues […]

Writing a will is arguably one of the most sensible things you can do for yourself and for your family. However, if you are among the 56% of Americans without a will, as reported by a 2016 Gallup poll, you might be wondering how to begin the will-writing process. A will is an important part […]

It’s never too early to being planning for your future. Contrary to popular belief, estate planning is not just for older individuals. In fact, younger people can find the planning process to be both worthwhile and relatively simple to begin. This article from WealthManagement describes the importance of planning for one’s foreseeable future (like marriage, […]

Many Americans acknowledge the importance of having their estate plans in place; however, it can be difficult to determine how to get started. Creating a will or a living trust may seem overwhelming and onerous, but taking the time to outline and organize your plans will ensure you provide for your heirs and your wishes […]

Through planned giving, many Duke alumni and friends are able to make larger gifts to the university than they may have thought possible. Planned gifts—such as a gift through your will, retirement account, or a life income gift—impact all aspects of the university from facilities and programs to student scholarships and faculty support. Duke University […]

Guest blogger Elizabeth Leverage Hilles’89, Director of Trusts, Estates, and Gift Planning at the University of Virginia’s Law School Foundation and gift planning chair for her 25th Reunion, shares five common estate planning “myths” that can create unintended problems and consequences for you and your family. Myth #1:  Appointing an executor is easy; so is […]