For over 45 years, Karen Kayser Benson ’63 has distinguished herself as an actress, talent agent, casting director, and personal manager. However, she arrived at Mount Holyoke intent on becoming a doctor and spent two-and-a-half years studying science in preparation for medical school. “All the while I was having a wonderful time


doing theatre,” said Benson, who performed lead roles in numerous campus productions.


“At Mount Holyoke, women from around the


world find their voice and begin speaking it,” she explained. “When my 25th reunion arrived, I wanted to honor that legacy. The time felt right to put Mount Holyoke in my will.” Now residing in Florida, Benson serves as


president of the Mount Holyoke Club of Southwest Florida and is cochair for the class of 1963’s upcoming 50th reunion. In addition, she’s a


Bequest intentions can now be recognized as early as the 50th reunion cycle, and also be tallied in the 50th reunion gift total. This change in policy allows an alumna to witness the impact of her donation to the College, and allows us to celebrate and appreciate her philanthropy during a landmark reunion.


—Gretchen Wuth Hays ’64, chair, Mary Lyon Society


“Eventually, I had to admit that it was far more than an avocation.” As a junior, Benson changed direction and completed a self-designed major in speech/drama. After graduation, she immediately headed to New York City to pursue her craft. Twenty-five years later, both to honor a milestone reunion and express gratitude for her Mount Holyoke education, Benson established a bequest naming the College as benefi- ciary of a life insurance policy and designated the gift for the theatre arts department.


TYPE OF BEQUEST: LIFE INSURANCE POLICY


In the past, bequests didn’t go toward the 50th reunion class gift. . . . It’s wonderful that they will be counted—and celebrated— during an alumna’s lifetime. —Karen Kayser Benson ’63


Alumnae donors represent more than 100 countries. | 7


class agent, one who is delighted by the College’s new policies regarding bequests. “In the past, bequests didn’t go toward the 50th reunion class gift and we also didn’t get a sense of the difference they make to Mount Holyoke. It’s wonderful that they will be counted— and celebrated—during an alumna’s lifetime,” said Benson.


Plan your gift, explore options, and learn more at www.mtholyoke.edu/go/giftplanning.

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