1886 Legacy Society

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Aquinas College Establishes 1886 Legacy Society

One of the most significant charitable gifts you ever make might come after your lifetime. Including Aquinas in your will or estate plan is a wonderful and deeply meaningful way to leave your mark on the College you hold dear.

To express our gratitude and celebrate the generosity of those who have included Aquinas College in their estate plans, we have established the 1886 Legacy Society.

Why 1886?

1886 is the year Aquinas College's story began. It is the year that Dominican Sisters, under the leadership of Mother Aquinata Fiegler, established the Novitiate Normal School in Traverse City. That school transferred to Grand Rapids in 1911. By 1922 it evolved into Sacred Heart (later Marywood) College and then Catholic Junior College. In 1940, the name was changed for the final time to Aquinas College.

The 1886 Legacy Society connects us to our history. It also pays homage to our Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids, the legacy they've created and the countless lives they've touched through their ministry of education.

How does one join the 1886 Legacy Society?

Becoming part of the 1886 Legacy Society is easy — just let us know that you've included a gift to Aquinas in your long-term plans (learn a few simple ways to accomplish this on page 11). You will find a checkbox to notify us on the return envelope included in this publication.

A team member will be in contact to welcome you to the society and ask a few questions. We want to be sure that we have a clear record of your intentions for your eventual gift, so we can honor your wishes when the time comes.

What does being part of the 1886 Legacy Society entail?

This society aims to thank and celebrate people like you, who care enough about Aquinas to plan ahead. As a member of the society, you will receive contact and updates about Aquinas from College Leadership. We will list your name in future editions of this publication. You will also receive invitations to exclusive Aquinas College events.

Ready to learn more?