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Inspire and Assist

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Jean and Joe Platt

Following are testimonials from the recipients of one fellowship gift to Claremont Graduate University.

"Attending CGU will allow me to contribute to the success of my own students. So not only are you contributing to my future, you are contributing to countless other students' futures as well."

"I look forward to one day helping future doctoral students the way that you have helped me."

Now imagine this response multiplied each year by 110. That's how many donor-created fellowships are currently benefiting students at CGU.

Many of these fellowships were created by bequests made to the University through the estate plans of its alumni, faculty, staff and friends. In fact, the comments above are drawn from the recipients of just one such fellowship, made possible by an estate gift from Joseph and Jean Platt.

Meet Joe and Jean
Joe Platt served as the eighth president of Claremont Graduate University (known then as Claremont Graduate School and University Center) from 1976 to 1981. A physicist by trade, he was a strong believer in the liberal arts model of education. Under his leadership the University launched new programs in management, policy and music.

After his presidency, Joe and his wife, Jean, continued to contribute in a variety of ways to the University's growth and excellence until they were both well into their 90s. When Joe and Jean passed away within a year of each other in 2012 and 2013, their estate generously provided CGU with yet another gift: endowed fellowship support that will benefit students for decades to come.

Remembering Mom and Dad
In remembering their parents, Elizabeth Platt Garrow and Ann Platt Walker are not surprised by such thoughtful generosity.

"Jean and Joe Platt embraced, lived and encouraged scholastic and humanitarian efforts," the sisters wrote recently. "It was their wish to provide opportunities for CGU scholars and fellows to advance these goals locally, nationally and globally. They would both be pleased and excited to follow the recipients' progress and accomplishments."

Reaching Future Generations
The academic opportunities that Joe and Jean have made possible will have an impact on CGU for many years to come.

"The Platts' generosity serves as an inspiration to me and I am happy to be a part of such an amazing legacy," says Drew Clinkenbeard, this year's fellowship recipient. "It is my hope that I will be able to inspire and assist future generations in pursuing careers in science."

How Can You Change a Life?
For information on how to include CGU in your own estate planning, contact Claremont Graduate University at (909) 621-8027 or plannedgiving@cgu.edu.