The Importance of Bequests: A Key to Securing the Future

This article was supplied by Jackie Dalton | NSW/ACT Chapter Vice President (2024) | Director of Philanthropy, Frensham Schools

Bequests are a vital cornerstone in ensuring long-term financial stability of schools and universities. By encouraging supporters to leave a legacy through a bequest, these institutions can establish a dependable and growing Endowment Fund, providing a sustainable future for generations to come. At Frensham Schools, we have seen firsthand the transformative power of a robust Bequest Program through our award-winning Winifred West Legacy.

Starting just five years ago in 2019, we have increased the number of bequestors (or ‘Custodians’ as we call them) by 217% and received five bequests, with an average bequest gift size of $762,000. The return on investment (ROI) from our Bequest Program over the last two years has exceeded 6,000%, underscoring the tremendous impact that even a modest investment in bequests can yield.

Bequests offer more than just financial support; they foster deep connections between alumni, parents, and the wider community. In girls’ schools, in particular, where women often outlive men, bequests offer an opportunity to strengthen bonds and create lasting legacies.

These gifts also allow us to honour the wishes of our supporters by directing their funds toward particular projects if so desired, which align with their values, such as scholarships, bursaries, or capital works.

At Frensham, every bequest gift is treated like a major gift, with personalised stewardship and ongoing engagement with our ‘Custodians of The Winifred West Legacy’. This approach has allowed us to build trust, foster loyalty, and strengthen the philanthropic culture within our community.

If you’d like to learn more about how a bequest program can benefit your school or would like advice on how to grow your own program, I would be delighted to share our experience. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—I look forward to the conversation!

Jackie Dalton
Director of Philanthropy, Frensham Schools
jdalton@frensham.nsw.edu.au