"I didn't realize when I left RIT that I was leaving with anything other than a bachelor's degree. As I fast forward to today, I see that RIT gave me lifetime skills. I have become a 'systems thinker', a teaching machine. I've often asked myself-what can I do to give back? I have been involved at RIT through lecturing, mentoring, and hiring RIT students. Now, I'm giving back by including RIT in my estate plans."
-Steve Matteson
BS Engineering '77

Steve left RIT with an engineering degree in 1977. Looking back, he realized that he didn't just leave with a bachelor's degree in hand; he left with the skills needed to build a successful life. These life skills helped Steve to evolve into a "systems thinker," a teaching machine. Reflecting back on his time spent at RIT, Steve wondered who the people were who gave back when he was a student. Who made it possible for him to graduate from this great university? Steve, a Franz Haverstock Scholarship recipient, wasn't aware of who those donors were, but he was struck by the notion that someone gave back to help him achieve his goals. Steve wanted to do the same for current and future RIT students. He's been involved at RIT through lecturing, mentoring, and hiring RIT students. Most recently, Steve is giving back to RIT through his estate plans. His commitment to give back is Steve's legacy.

Did you know that…

• You can make a gift that actually increases your income and reduces your taxes.
• You can make a gift that provides you a stream of income when you retire.
• You can donate your house, take a deduction, and live in your home for the rest of your life.
• You can name RIT the beneficiary of your IRA and avoid double-taxation.
• You can make a gift that costs you nothing now by including RIT in your will.

As Steve has done, you too can create your legacy. For more information and to learn how you can create your legacy, please contact Hallett Burrall, Director of Planned Giving at 585.475.3106 or [email protected] . To have Hallett contact you directly, please complete and submit the form below.

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