Couple utilizes stock gift to create new scholarship

A habit of consistent giving to Emporia State University scholarships had Russ and Myra Jones of Emporia already thinking about their future giving.

It was when they met with John Griffin, the estate planner retained by the ESU Foundation to work with the university’s alumni and friends, that they realized they wanted to give now, too. The result is the Russell and Myra Jones Scholarship Fund. 

“We started thinking, ‘Why wait until we’re gone?’ Now, we’ll get to meet some of the recipients,” Myra said.

The scholarship fund is reserved for juniors and seniors from the state of Kansas who carry GPAs between 2.75 and 3.5, purposefully reaching the academically mid-range students. Said Myra, “A lot of those kids are such good people, and can contribute so much and can benefit themselves, their families and their communities.”

Myra was raised in Emporia, while Russ was raised in Leavenworth. Myra attended ESU, as did the three Jones children. In 1967, they started a business in Emporia, Jones Heating and Air Conditioning, and have seen it grow with the support of customers employed by or educated at ESU.

“We’ve really been blessed by the college,” Myra said. “It’s such an asset to Emporia.”

A gift of appreciated stock paved the way for the scholarship. The Jones are excited to see the results, years from now, as future alumni recognize the support they received and consider giving back to ESU. Russ sees student scholarships as something that benefits the entire community.

“It benefits us all,” he said. “It’s that old saying: ‘You can’t take it with you.’ Give it early and…”

“Enjoy it,” Myra interjected.

“And see who benefits from it,” Russ said.

To hear Russ and Myra talk, they’re the ones who are benefiting – not just the ESU students who will benefit from the permanently endowed fund.

“You’ll find it true,” Myra said, “that the more you give, the more you have.” 

Gifts of securities

Appreciated stocks, bonds or mutual funds entitle a donor to two income tax benefits:  avoidance of capital gains and the use of the securities’ fair market value on the date of the gift for an income tax charitable deduction. Transfer instructions are available from the ESU Foundation upon request. Contact Trisha Ott at (620) 341-6472 or e-mail at tott@emporia.edu.

 

Last Updated June 16, 2008>