Three Alumnae Building the Future

Leslie Benmark ('67, '70)

Benmark was once told a woman shouldn't study engineering, but that only made her more determined to succeed in the industrial engineering program at UT. Her highly decorated career with Dupont blazed trails for women in engineering, and she's extended this legacy through many charitable ventures, including generous gifts to UT through her estate.

"UT has given great financial planning advice, providing lists of estate planning resources and leading me through a property gift to the university. Women have a unique viewpoint, and I'm glad to lend my voice at UT, from board memberships to financial support."

Lisa Edwards Reed ('86)

Reed and her husband, Greg ('85, '88), began giving back to the university early in their marriage. That support increased from generous annual gifts to a portion of their estate with the development of their successful careers. Reed believes in the importance of staying connected at UT, representing women's perspectives in financial giving and board involvement.

"Consideration of different perspectives makes the university its strongest. UT is the foundation for all that Greg and I have achieved. We believe strongly in giving back as Volunteers, not only through our annual gifts and specific endowments, but also through our estate as a legacy that will make a difference for future students."

Missy Wallen ('74)

Wallen's first major gift to UT established the Faye Julian Professorship because Professor Julian took 17-year-old Wallen under her wing. Wallen has always made her UT philanthropy personal because she says she owes UT for her 52-year success in banking and financial services.

"As many human obstacles as I faced, there were just as many people who helped me, like Faye. I want to be this kind of support to future generations. It's my duty to help other women in the workplace and community, to pay it forward. The biggest legacy I can leave is not what I've accomplished but what I've helped others accomplish. That's why it's important to me to invest in UT and its students."

You, Too, Can Make a Difference

Consider using your estate plan to support the next generation of UT students—and be sure to let us know about your generosity, so we can thank you and ensure your gift is used as you intend.

Your foresight could ignite the torch for ambitious Vols from all walks of life. Contact the Office of Gift Planning at 865-974-3388 or giftplanning@utk.edu to start the conversation today.