Anne Putnam: Supporting the Next Generation of Students

Education has been important throughout Anne Putnam's life. Although her parents never went to college due to the Great Depression, they instilled in their children that continued learning is the key to a successful life. There was no question that Anne and her siblings would pursue college educations.

Anne attended college to become a home economics teacher—a profession she would excel at and cherish for a few decades. As her career shifted from teaching to ranching, Anne discovered a new way to play a part in young people's education. She would donate her time as a member of Fort Lewis College's governing board and later as a Foundation board member.

"One of the most important things for our community and for the next generations is education," Anne says. "Being involved with FLC makes me feel like I can contribute to the success of young people's education in ways other than teaching."

Anne has also given back by including Fort Lewis College Foundation in her estate plan, where she directed her gift toward scholarships. To Anne, lending financial support to students who are the first in their families to attend college or who may not otherwise be able to afford higher education is important.

"I want to carry on the idea that education is of primary importance to people's lives," Anne says. "The contributions that I and others make became part of FLC's legacy. With our help, the college can continue educating generations of people."

Like Anne, you can support FLC and future generations of students through your estate plan. Contact Dave Kerns ’03 at 970-247-7427 or kerns_d@fortlewis.edu to discuss your charitable giving options.