Beaumont city councilman establishes $1M memorial gift, scholarship

Beaumont City Councilman Mike Getz named Lamar University as one of six local Southeast Texas organizations to benefit from a $1 million gift through the establishment of a charitable remainder unitrust (CRUT) in memory of his late wife, Allison Nathan Getz. The announcement was made during a press conference held at Lamar University on Wednesday, Jan. 17. 

“Today is about honoring an extraordinary person, my wife, Allison Getz, and it's only appropriate that we find a way to recognize her legacy,” Getz said. “We couldn't think of a better way to do that than to set up this trust. This trust will be endowed with a million dollars, which will be distributed amongst six beneficiary organizations.” 

Notably, the CRUT will play a significant role in contributing to Lamar University, securing the enduring legacy of Allison and Mike within the Cardinal community. 

Allison Nathan Getz, a staunch supporter of Lamar University, started contributing in 1994. Her donations benefited LU's College of Fine Arts and Communication and Athletics. Her involvement also extended to serving on the Friends of the Arts Board and chairing the Le Grand Bal fundraiser at LU in 2013. 

At the press conference, Getz also announced the establishment of the Allison and Michael Getz Scholarship for the Fine Arts, a $15,000 scholarship endowment for LU undergraduate and graduate students majoring in fine arts. 

“Of course, we're grateful that Mike included Lamar University, his alma mater, as a beneficiary of his charitable remainder new trust, and for the establishment of this scholarship for the benefit of the students in the College of Fine Arts and Communication,”Lamar University Associate Vice President for University Advancement Jeff Spoeri said. 

Spoeri also underscored the impact of philanthropic giving through trusts and financial planning, encouraging potential donors to explore opportunities for establishing a legacy at Lamar University. 

“Philanthropic giving to Lamar University through trusts, wills, and other financial planning vehicles is an excellent way to establish a perpetual legacy, provide much-needed charitable support, and perhaps realize some present-day tax benefits as well,” Spoeri said. “Often, donors can maximize their giving and have a far greater impact through their estate than they might otherwise be able to do using current income or assets.” 

For more information on how to establish a planned gift at Lamar University, visit legacy.lamar.edu.