Claudia Justy '70 (Secondary Education; Social Studies) creates scholarship to celebrate friendship.

In conversation with her TIAA advisor Kelly Lin, Claudia Justy ’70 (Secondary Education; Social Studies) discovered a creative way to achieve something that she has wanted to do for several years – that is, create a scholarship to celebrate the friendships and opportunities that SUNY New Paltz gave her. Now, as she passes her 70th birthday, Claudia has pledged an annual contribution for five years through her required minimum distribution (RMD) from her individual retirement account (IRA), to establish an endowed recruitment scholarship to support the recruitment and retention of top students to SUNY New Paltz.

“My education at New Paltz was a catalyst for my success,” reports Justy. “I continued my education at Bowling Green State University, then went on to Touro Law School to achieve my J.D. Then I pursued a career in real estate. I am very grateful for my life and this is a way of giving back. Scholarships are a great way to make a difference for students and the College.”

According to Lin, TIAA clients are more likely than those at other fi nancial brokerages to be philanthropic. “Most have had careers in education or other non-profi t sectors; they have made their livings in service to their communities. They are grateful and it is no surprise that they understand the difference they can make through giving back. Claudia’s scholarship is a way TIAA can help her by shifting the tax liability while giving students at New Paltz the means to a great education. It’s a win-win.”