Ben Behrend ’12 Gives Back to Help the School Continue to Shape Future Students
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Ben Behrend ’12 shares a deep and lasting connection with Friends Select School. As a young alumnus, he has been a dedicated supporter of the school that shaped his life in meaningful ways. From volunteering in various roles to becoming co-president of the Alumni Association, he has consistently given back to the community that helped him thrive. Along with his contributions to the school’s annual fund, Ben is furthering his commitment by making a planned gift to ensure Friends Select’s growth and impact on future generations of students.
Ben is no stranger to philanthropy. As a major gifts officer for the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science, he sees how personal contributions can make a difference. He credits his parents—also longtime supporters of Friends Select—for shaping his perspective on the importance of giving back.
"My parents were always very open about how they support the things they value most in their lives, including mentioning what they have in their estate plans," he explained. This openness inspired Ben, even at a young age, to consider how he could make his own meaningful contributions. "I thought about the organizations that have influenced my life and asked myself, ‘If I were no longer here, how would I want to disperse my estate in a way that's meaningful?’ And Friends Select is one of the most significant organizations to have had an impact on my life."
Including Friends Select in one’s estate plan is a simple process. Whether drafting a will, consulting with a financial planner, or working with an attorney, any amount can easily be designated to the school. In addition, donors can opt to designate a flat dollar amount or a percentage of their estate or retirement fund. This type of gift offers the potential for tax benefits and can be updated at any time, ensuring the gift aligns with a donor’s plans and priorities.
Ben's commitment to the school is a testament to the lasting impact of a Friends Select education and the power of philanthropic support. With his planned gift, he's ensuring that the school that shaped him will continue to shape students for years to come. As for how Ben hopes his gift will support Friends Select, he values the flexibility it provides the school.
"For me, it's always about people, places, and programs. I trust Friends Select to allocate my gift to the people who need it, whether that's financial aid or faculty compensation; places, whether that's capital campaigns or updating facilities; or programs, like global exchange programs or bringing speakers to campus,” he said. “I feel good knowing that my legacy can live on through a place that had a great impact on me.”
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