Fordham Prep—Planned Giving

Fordham Prep—Planned Giving
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Fordham Prep's mission is to form leaders committed to faith, scholarship and service through a college preparatory education in the Catholic Jesuit tradition.
Learn More About Smart Giving in 2026
How Will You Leave Your Legacy?
A legacy gift enables you to support Fordham Prep
, secure the financial needs of your loved ones, and provides you with tax benefits. Legacy gifts of all sizes help create scholarships and build our endowment, benefit curriculum enhancements, faculty development, global education, athletics, visual and performing arts, technology, and our mission and service programs.
By including
Fordham Prep
in your will or trust, naming the school as a beneficiary of all or part of a life insurance policy, or taking advantage of other giving opportunities, you can preserve your assets now and support
the Prep
for years to come. Your gift will have a real, lasting impact.
To learn more, we encourage you to explore the gift opportunities on the following pages. We are happy to assist you in any way we can as you prayerfully consider if one of these options is right for you.
The Shea-McDonough Legacy Society
Since it was established in 1984 and renamed the
The Shea-McDonough Legacy Society
in 2019, we have welcomed and recognized alumni, parents, friends and other benefactors, who have invested in
the Prep
as they have their own families. Their gifts -- both modest and large -- have played a critical role in advancing
Fordham Prep
’s mission to educate young men in faith, scholarship and service to become "men for others."
Named in honor of longtime Prep faculty members and revered teachers,  Rev. Arthur V. Shea, SJ and Harry L. McDonough, membership in the Society ensures that your legacy includes a meaningful contribution toward
Fordham Prep
’s long-term stability. All donors who inform us that
the Prep
is part of their estate plans, which may include a bequest and/or charitable income gifts, such as charitable gift annuities, charitable remainder unitrusts, charitable remainder annuity trusts, or gifts of life insurance, become members of the
The Shea-McDonough Legacy Society
Your membership involves no obligations or solicitations, but does allow us to thank and recognize you throughout the year.  It is our hope that your foresight will also inspire the generosity of others.
If you have already included
the Prep
in your plans, please let us know so we can properly thank you and make sure your gift will be used as you intend.
Join Now
View Members
The Shea-McDonough Legacy Society
Members
Following is a list of the alumni, parents and friends, living and deceased, who are members of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society.
Dan Altenau ’08
Joe Altenau ’04
Mr. Nicholas R. Ambrosino ’37 (RIP)
Mr. Stephen J. Amoretty ’58 (RIP)
Rev. George E. Appel ’31 (RIP)
Mr. Robert J. Armbruster ’59 (RIP)
Mr. John R. Becker ’50 (RIP)
Mr. & Mrs. Robert W. Bertrand ’58
Mr. Owen Joseph Black, Jr. ’43 (RIP)
Mr. Thomas J. Boyd ’46 (RIP)
Robert Brannigan ’49, P’74 (RIP)
Mr. James M. Callahan ’59
Mr. Joseph P. Callahan ’62
Mr. Joseph Caporusso (RIP)
Mr. Constantine L. Clemente ’54 P’85 (RIP) & Mrs. Constantine L. Clemente P’85
Mr. Frank J. Colarusso ’74
Mr. Stephen Courtney ’68
Mrs. Joan M. Coughlin P’85 (RIP)
The Estate of George X. Connor ’39 (RIP)
Mr. Joseph J. Connor ’62
Mr. Richard J. Corallo ’43 (RIP)
Mr. Edward J. Costello ’57
The Estate of John J. Cotter ’33 (RIP)
Mr. Francis R. Coughlin ’44 (RIP)
Mr. Joseph S. Coyle ’53
Mr. Jeremiah H. Creedon ’49 (RIP)
Howard Cusack ’67
Mr. Robert J. D’Adamo ’69
The Estate of Leonard A. Daly ’38 (RIP)
The Estate of Bernard J. Daenzer ’34 (RIP)
Drs. Joseph ’55 & Jayne DeFiore
Richard DeLorenzo, Esq. ’55
Mr. Edward J. Driscoll ’47 (RIP)
Mr. Robert D. DiDiego ’45 (RIP)
Joe Dirr ’64 and Linda Rapuano
Mr. James W. DiMarzo ’64
Hon. & Mrs. Joseph J. DioGuardi ’58
Vincent DonVito ’82
Mr. William H. Downs ’41 (RIP)
Mr. Kevin B. Duff ’60
Mr. David V. Duchini ’41 (RIP)
Anthony Fiorella, Jr. ’56 (RIP)
Christine Fiorella-Russo (RIP)
Mr. John M. Fitzpatrick ’58
Mr. Dennis J. FitzSimons ’67
The Estate of Richard Flood ’51 (RIP)
Edward Gagnon ’66 (RIP)
Thomas Galligan ’49 (RIP)
Mr. WIlliam B. Galligan ’33 (RIP)
Ms. Bernadette M. Garigiliano (RIP)
Martin J. Gately, MD ’33 (RIP)
Dr. Charles ’54 & Mrs. Therese Gattnig (RIP)
Mr. John M. Geraghty ’60
Robert Gilbert ’57 (RIP)
Mrs. Francis J. Gillespie P’86 (RIP)
The Estate of Vito T. Giordano, Esq ’46 (RIP)
Mr. Francis J. Goldsmith ’34 (RIP)
Mr. Walter Gollinge
Mr. Edward Green ’57
Mr. Frederick H. Grein ’64
Mr. Kevin Guidera ’52 (RIP)
The Estate of Albert B. Gunnison ’31 (RIP)
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Hackett ’67
Mr. Stephen R. Hammond ’58
Mr. Desmond J. Heathwood ’59
Mr. Martin F. Hession ’33 (RIP)
Mr. Edward F. Hickey ’46 (RIP)
Mr. Peter R. Hickey ’62 (RIP)
Mr. Kenneth A. Hoffman ’61
Mr. & Mrs. Richard ’29 & Mary Holland (RIP)
Mrs. Phyllis Corsbie Hyacinthe P’77,’79,’80 GP ’99, ’08, ’08, ’15
Mr. Mark C. Johnson ’72
The Estate of Martin F. Jordan, Jr. ’42 (RIP)
Mrs. Monya Kemp Kimball (RIP)
Mr. James G. Kane ’44 (RIP)
Thomas F. Kirwin, Esq. ’68
Mr. Edward A. Lang ’73
Mr. Gene A. Lanza ’55, P ’78, ’80, ’84 (RIP)
Mr Gene A. Lanza, Jr. ’78
Mr. Joseph R. Lanza ’80
Mr. Michael J. Lanza ’84
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas J. Lavin P’97,’02
Mrs. Madelyn R. Larsen P’89
Mr. & Mrs. Stephen E. ’67 & Lori Lilienthal
Mr. Atif Lofti & Ms. Suniya Farooqui
The Estate of Bernard Loughlin ’35 (RIP)
Mr. James P. Lundy ’48, GP ’05, ’16
John Lyttle, Jr. ’58 (RIP)
John J. Maguire ’49 (RIP)
Mr. Richard D. Mallery ’58
Mr. Andrew J. Maloney P’81,’85, GP’22 (RIP)
Mrs. Ellen Maloney-Owens P’01,’05
Helen Maloney (RIP)
Mrs. Helen Marks P’62 (RIP)
Mr. Edward E. Martin ’33 (RIP)
Mr. Anthony J. Mazza ’63
Mr. Bernard L. Menkhaus P’61 (RIP)
John & Lorraine Sear McCafferty ’65 (RIP)
Mr. Thomas F. McEvily ’43 (RIP)
Mr. John S. McEvoy ’46 (RIP)
Mr. Walter J. McLaughlin ’49
Laurie D. McCormack
Mr. William F. Meehan ’70 (RIP)
Mr. James P. Melican ’58
Mr. Daniel P. Minogue ’54
Mr. Colman C. Mockler, Jr. ’47 (RIP)
Mr. Thomas J. Mitchell, Esq. ’62 (RIP)
Mr. Joseph H. Moglia ’67
Mr. John J. Mooney ’35 (RIP)
The Estate of Robert M. Mooney ’62 (RIP)
Mr. Kevin F. Mulvey ’62
Msgr. Francis J. Murphy ’29 (RIP)
Brian S. Murphy ’75 (RIP)
Mr. John W. Murphy ’53
Mr. William J. Murphy ’52 (RIP)
Michael Murray ’01
Peter Murray ’63
Mr. Vincent Murray ’98
Mr. L. Douglas Nolan (RIP)
Edward O’Brien ’46, P ’76, ’80 (RIP)
Mr. Edward J. O’Connell ’30 (RIP)
Mr. Francis J. O’Kane ’28 (RIP)
Mr. Thomas J. O’Neill ’52
Mr. Joseph G. Opp ’64
Mr. Daniel M. Ottaviano ’69
Dr. John Pane ’64 & Elizabeth Bassett
Mr. William Perry ’64
Mr. Frank Petrilli ’68 (RIP)
Mr. & Mrs. James ’37 & Mary Phelan (RIP)
Mr. Harold F.X. Plate ’46 (RIP)
The Estate of William F. Quirk ’51 (RIP)
Mr. Robert C. Rehm ’31 (RIP)
Mr. Gregory F. Rinn ’57
Mr. Irving P. Roman, Jr. ’91
Mr. Joseph G. Rowan ’58
John P. Rung, Esq., ’50 (RIP)
The Estate of John R. Ryan ’44 (RIP)
Mr. Neal Ryan ’81
Mr. Raymond T. Ryan ’32 (RIP)
Mrs. Gertrude B. Scanlan (RIP)
The Estate of Caroline Schafbuch (RIP)
The Estate of Francis D. Senerchia, Esq ’38 (RIP)
John Silvanie ’66 (RIP)
Mr. Douglas R. Schirripa ’70
Dr. Bernard M. Schnappauf ’42 (RIP)
Vin Scully ’44 (RIP)
Mr. Joseph F. Shepherd ’24 (RIP)
Mr. John T. Shields ’44 (RIP)
Mr. Kenneth P. Singleton ’79
Mr. William M. Skehan ’57
Mr. Michael J. Sniffen ’67 P’89
Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence A. Specchierla P’82,’87
Mr. George A. Spohr ’23 (RIP)
Mr. August A. Stellwag ’49 (RIP)
Mr. John J. Sweeney ’56 (RIP)
The Estate of John F. Sheeran ’56 (RIP)
The Estate of John P. Stack ’46 (RIP)
Michael D. Sullivan ’79
The Estate of Mr. William P. O’Sullivan ’47 (RIP)
The Estate of Joseph A. Trimarco ’31 (RIP)
Mr. Edward J. Tostanoski ’40 (RIP)
The Estate of Marianna Tostanoski (RIP)
Mr. Gerard B. Tracy ’35 (RIP)
Mr. William E. Tuite ’35 (P”66)
George J, Vendura, Jr. ’65 (RIP)
Hon. (RIP) & Mrs. Paul A. Victor ’50 P’83
Mr. Martin J. Waters ’57 P’84,’96 (RIP)
The Estate of Frank C. Webster ’44 (RIP)
The Estate of Charles F. Williams
Mr. Paul D. Williams ’56, GP’24* & Mrs. Phyllis Williams GP’24
The Estate of John M. Wilson ’42 (RIP)
Charles Winterhalter, MD ’40 (RIP)
Close
Ways of Giving
Gifts From Your Will
General Bequest
Through a provision in your written and executed will, you can make a gift in the form of cash, securities, real estate or personal property. There are many types of bequests. Choose the one that best fits your needs and intentions.
Download Bequest Language
Beneficiary Gifts
Retirement Accounts
Naming
Fordham Prep
as the beneficiary of a qualified retirement plan asset such as a 401(k), 403(b), IRA, Keogh, profit-sharing pension plan or other donor-advised funds, will accomplish a charitable goal while realizing significant tax savings.
Download Beneficiary Form
Donor Advised Fund
(DAF)
Designate the Prep as a beneficiary to receive all or a portion of the balance of your Donor Advised Fund (DAF) through your fund administrator. You also can make a grant to us at any time from your donor-advised fund.
Download DAF Info
Gifts of Stock
Appreciated Stock
When you donate appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual fund shares instead of cash, you'll receive charitable deductions at full, fair market value while reducing capital gains impact.
Download Stock Transfer Info
Charitable IRA Rollover
Make a
Charitable IRA Rollover
If you're 70 ½ or older, you can make a gift directly from your IRA to
the Prep
. While there is no charitable deduction for a rollover gift, you do avoid the income tax on the donated portion of your required minimum distribution.
Download IRA Gift Info
Gifts of Property
Real Estate and Other Valuables
Like stock, the fair market value of gifts of appreciated assets such as real estate, artwork, and other well curated collections, can be deducted from your income tax today and reduce your estate taxes in the future.
Contact Us for Details
Meet Our Donors
Joe Altenau ’04
A Lifelong Bond
Dennis FitzSImons ’67
A Philosophy of Giving
Laurie McCormack
Honoring Intentions
Vince DonVito ’82
Part of a great school by choice
The Murray Family
Peter '63, Vinnie '98, Mike '01
Honoring the past with a gift for the future.
The Lanza family
Gene Sr. '55, Gene '78, Joseph '80, and Michael '84
The Lanza family knows what a profound impact Fordham Prep has on the lives of its students, and wants to see that continue.
Jack and Marge Geraghty '60
Jack and his wife Marge, loyal supporters of The Annual Fund and Scholarships, are
also members of the
The Shea-McDonough Legacy Society
Kevin & Connie Hackett '67
Kevin, a former long-time member of the Board of Trustees, wants his fellow Rams to take advantage of available tax breaks and support
Fordham Prep
Ken Singleton '79
Men for Others:
A Continued Mission. “Our real job–the real goal–
is to be a man for others.”
Phyllis Corsbie Hyacinthe
Parent '77, '79, '80,
Grandparent '99, '08, '08, '15
As a parent and grandparent to seven Prep alums, Phyllis is a valued member of The Shea-McDonough Legacy Society.
Desi Heathwood '59
Desi knows that every gift counts: gifts of every type and size combine to maximize the impact on the long-term success of Fordham Prep.
Joe Moglia '67
"So much of what I have achieved in my lifetime, is because of my experience at the Prep. I am happy and proud to be able to contribute to the place that has given me so much."
Dan Ottaviano '69
Dan supports Fordham Prep with a scholarship gift so that students can have the same transformative experience he did.
Tony Mazza '63
Tony graduated from Fordham Prep and went on to get an undergraduate and graduate degrees from Fordham University–and now he's giving back.
Jack and Marge Geraghty '60
Growing up in the Bronx, Jack Geraghty ’60 loved basketball and dreamed of going to
Fordham Prep
. “The other schools in the area were average,” he recalls. “I wanted the best. And I got it at
Fordham Prep
.”
And, what 14-year-old aspiring ballplayer wouldn’t get a kick out of competing for their school in a college gym. Sixty years later Jack still gets together with his Ram classmates and counts them among his closest friends.
Jack credits the academic rigor of his Jesuit education and the spiritual guidance he received at
the Prep
for setting him on a course to a fulfilling and interesting life. After graduation, Jack attended the U.S. Naval Academy, served in Vietnam and went on to a successful career in finance.
“The values taught at
the Prep
translate to all aspects of life,” says Jack. “We have done well. We want to give so others can do well also; give students that head start.”
Thankful for the foundational role
Fordham Prep
played in his life, Jack and his wife Marge, loyal supporters of The Annual Fund and Scholarships, are
also members of the
The Shea-McDonough Legacy Society
. They have included
the Prep
in their estate planning through a charitable IRA rollover and a will
bequest intention. “My wife and I both hold the same opinion – if
someone helped you get started, give back to support them,” he
says, “Think about who has helped you. Wouldn’t you like to give
someone a chance? We set up our gift so that Prep students will have
the same opportunities we did.”
Kevin & Connie Hackett '67
When Kevin ’67 and Connie Hackett sat down with their lawyer to discuss estate-planning matters with regards to their IRA account, their main goal was to figure out what would be the most tax-efficient way to benefit their heirs, while at the same time benefitting the charitable causes they support.
“My lawyer said I should consider naming a non-profit as one of mine and Connie’s IRA beneficiaries,” said Hackett. The answer surprised the Hacketts. “When I asked why, my lawyer told me that when you name a non-profit as an IRA beneficiary, the money comes right off the top, lowering the tax burden on our other beneficiaries. I was totally unaware this was possible, but the fact that Connie and I can support
Fordham Prep
and still benefit our family is a win-win scenario.”
Hackett, who was a long-time member of the
Fordham Prep
Board of Trustees and inducted into the
Fordham Prep
Hall of Honor, now wants his fellow Rams to take advantage of the tax break and support
Fordham Prep
. “The tax rate for IRA beneficiaries is fairly substantial and would place an unfair burden on them. Naming a non-profit as a beneficiary is not a difficult thing to do and my hope is that people realize that they can make a difference through a simple action,” says Hackett.
“Doing something like this has been on my mind for a while, as I recently realized I am not immortal. In my experience, the wise thing to do is to talk to your advisors or lawyer to figure out a way to provide for
the Prep
.”
Ken Singleton '79
Men for Others:
A Continued Mission
Ken Singleton ’79 says he first fully came alive at Fordham Prep. “Everyone there wants you to succeed–then and now!” he says. “But at the same time, I learned to look outside of myself. Our real job–the real goal–is to be a man for others.”
After graduation, Ken attended College of the Holy Cross, received his law degree from Fordham University and had a successful career in commercial real estate. In retirement, Ken turned his attention as COO to putting Graymoor in Garrison, New York on a strong financial footing, and never lost sight of how important his early experiences at Fordham Prep were. Ken is carrying out the Prep’s mission, which has become his personal philosophy, by making a gift from his estate.
“It’s really all about values,” remarks Ken.
“Everyone at the Prep is supportive of each other–the students, the administration, the staff–and I want to support that. I want to be a part of continuing that mission.”
Ken urges others to join him in supporting Fordham’s ability to maintain this distinctive culture. “I encourage my fellow Fordham Prep brothers to join me in supporting the school that gave us so much.
The Prep served us well, and now needs our support for the future.
This is our opportunity to help provide the same experience for future students.”
Gifts of all types and sizes combine to maximize our ability to support our mission to educate young men for a life of service and success. You can designate Fordham Prep as the full or partial beneficiary of your will, retirement, brokerage, or bank account. Naming the Prep as the beneficiary, and using other assets not subject to income tax to make gifts to your heirs, is a savvy way to support the ones you love without affecting your current cash flow, lifestyle, or your family’s security.
Phyllis Corsbie Hyacinthe, Parent ’77, ’79, ’80, Grandparent ’99, ’08, ’08, ’15
“We wanted an educational experience for our sons that was grounded in a mission dedicated to faith, scholarship, fraternity and service to our community. Fordham Prep provided that.”
Pyhyllis Corsbie Hyacinthe and her late husband, Hector Hyacinthe considered faith, hope and charity the most important values to instill in their family. “Those values guided how we raised our children and how we lived our lives,” said Phyllis. Years later, as her three sons and four grandsons graduated from the Prep, Phyllis still recognizes those same values. “In addition to annual donations to Fordham Prep, as a member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society, I have pledged an estate planned gift that will continue our family’s focus on supporting young men of color in need of tuition assistance,” she said.
You too can create a family legacy of education. Simply name Fordham Prep in your will or trust or as a beneficiary of life insurance, retirement, or other estate plans, and designate that your gift be used to fund a scholarship. Your legacy will benefit countless generations of Prep students.
Learn more about becoming a member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society
and the gift that best meets your charitable, family and financial goals
at preplegacy.org or contact Suzanne Dowden,
Director, Engagement & Development
at 718-367-7500, ext. 274 or
dowdens@fordhamprep.org
Desi Heathwood '59
Desi Heathwood '59 knows that every gift counts:
gifts of every type and size combine to maximize the
impact on the long-term success of Fordham Prep.
While his time at Columbia, the Navy and Wharton shaped much of his life,
it was at Fordham Prep where it all began. As it was for so many others, the
Prep ignited a curiosity for a spiritual and intellectual life that continues for
Desi to this day. "My Jesuit education expanded my educational opportunities;
it lit a flame, so if I can help others have that same experience, I want to," he
says. Desi encourages his fellow classmates to join him, and the many other
members of the Prep brotherhood, who have established scholarships and
provide tuition assistance to the well-deserving young men of Fordham
Prep. "The contributions of many supporters work in unison to carry the
Prep's mission forward and there's no gift minimum to join
the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society," says Desi.
Learn more about becoming a member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society
and the gift that best meets your charitable, family and financial goals
at preplegacy.org or contact Suzanne Dowden,
Director, Engagement & Development
at 718-367-7500, ext. 274 or
dowdens@fordhamprep.org
Joe Moglia '67
Joe Moglia '67, the former CEO & Chairman, TD Ameritrade, Former Head Football Coach, Coastal Carolina University, Chair of Athletics & Executive Advisor to the President, Coastal Carolina and Chairman, Fundamental Global and Capital Wealth Advisors, achieved great success over the span of his two careers in business and football.
There are many things that Joe is proud of, including his time at Rose Hill which inspired and motivated him: "My time at Fordham Prep was the most significant to me. I took pride then as I do now in the Prep's academic reputation and competitive athletic teams, with teachers and coaches who believe in what the Prep stands for, and know that their contributions are impactful."
This is high praise from the Wall Street CEO and award-winning collegiate football coach, who wants to see that culture of excellence continue for generations to come. He considers his gifts to the Prep as a way to pay forward the generosity and opportunities he received as a student, and encourages his fellow alumni to honor their time at the Prep by also considering a Legacy gift.
"While Fordham Prep is rich in tradition, it needs the financial support of its alumni and parents who are able to make it possible for this excellent academic institution to thrive and to share all it has to offer," says Joe.
For information on how your charitable estate planning can create a legacy at Fordham Prep, contact Suzanne Dowden, Director, Engagement & Development at 718-367-7500, ext. 274 or dowdens@fordhamprep. org, or visit preplegacy.org. If you have already included the Prep in your estate plans, please let us know so we can honor your generosity as the newest member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society and ensure that your gift is used as you intend.
Dan Ottaviano '69
Dan Ottaviano '69 supports Fordham Prep with a scholarship gift so that students can have the same transformative experience he did.
Dan's reasons for giving are personal–his gift created a scholarship named after his parents who took on an economic burden for the sake of his education–but he knows it's important to share his intentions. "My mind was made up a long time ago," says Dan. "A scholarship for students who are in the same position I was in seemed like the right way to give back."
He encourages others to share their experiences, and their blessings: "You have to determine what's right for you. What better way of saying thank you than to support the school that gave us
so much."
Like Dan, your reasons for giving are personal, but that doesn't mean they need to be kept private
. So whether you have already included the Prep in your estate plans, or are just getting started, we invite you to talk with us. Learn more about becoming a member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society and the gift that best meets your charitable, family and financial goals at preplegacy.org or contact Suzanne Dowden, Director, Engagement & Development at 718-367-7500, ext 274
or
dowdens@fordhamprep.org
Tony Mazza '63
Tony Mazza '63 graduated from Fordham Prep and went on to get an undergraduate and graduate degrees from Fordham University–and now he's giving back.
Tony credits the Prep for molding him into the man he is today, a hardworking, successful, and philanthropic commercial real estate investor who lives a very active lifestyle. "A Jesuit education is so important for young men," he says, "It's critically vital to the structure of a young man's life."
Tony is showing what's important to him by including Fordham Prep in his will. His legacy gift will establish an endowed scholarship so that future generations of young men will benefit from the transformative experience of the Jesuit education the Prep offers its students.
With just a few sentences in your will naming Fordham Prep as a beneficiary, you too can support the Jesuit values that have helped shape so many successful graduates. It's an easy way to make a remarkable impact.
Show what's important to you by creating a legacy through your own planned gift.
Learn more about becoming a member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society and the gift that best meets your charitable, family and financial goals at preplegacy.org or contact Suzanne Dowden, Director, Engagement & Development at 718-367-7500, ext 274 or
dowdens@fordhamprep.org
A Foundation for Success
The Lanza family knows what a profound impact Fordham Prep has on the lives of its students, and wants to see that continue.
Gene Lanza ’78 and his brothers, Joseph ’80, and Michael ’84, are proud Prep alumni, following in their father’s footsteps. “My dad was a smart kid,” says Gene. “He was the youngest of three and his parents were immigrants. They knew of Fordham, but it was expensive.” Knowing it would be a great experience for Gene Sr., his aunt paid the difference to allow him to go.
Years later, Gene Sr. ’55 knew he wanted to include the Prep in his estate plans as a way to give other students like him the same opportunity. When he became ill he proposed making another gift, wanting to see his legacy at work, before he passed away in 2021. He created the Lanza Family Scholarship with the combination of an outright gift and an endowment in his will. The scholarship will benefit a young man from the Bronx who needs financial assistance in order to attend the Prep.
“The Prep changed the trajectory of dad’s life–and subsequently our lives,” says Gene. “It’s more than just a school. It was a tremendous foundation in terms of academics, focus, and a passion for learning, and we formed lifelong bonds.”
Explore the ways you can create a legacy at Fordham Prep. Learn more about becoming a member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society and the gift that best meets your charitable, family and financial goals at preplegacy.org or contact Suzanne Dowden, Director, Engagement & Development at 718-367-7500,
ext. 274 or
dowdens@fordhamprep.org
The Murray Family: Peter 1963, Vinnie 1998, Mike 2001
It’s About Time: Honoring the past with a gift for the future.
The long maroon line of Prep alumni extends back nearly 100 years for the Murray family.
Vinnie Murray’s grandfather graduated in 1927, his Uncle Peter in 1963, Vinnie in 1998 with his brother Mike following in 2001, and Peter’s grandson is a member of the Class of 2026. Over nearly a century, Fordham Prep played a different but equally important role in each of their lives.
To help make sure a Prep education is possible and affordable for generations to come, Vinnie has decided to plan ahead to make a gift in support of his alma mater. He thinks the endowment is the future of the Prep, and that legacy gifts are a key element to building the endowment. “Continuing to grow the endowment is the most critical
thing we can do,” he says. “If more people were involved, the endowment would grow, and we could close
the gap and lower tuition–which is important to our students’ families who want a top Jesuit education for
their children, but struggle to afford it.”
Vinnie understands the value of planned gifts to the financial future of the school. “The mission of the Prep speaks to me, and I want to help ensure its tradition of excellence continues,” he says, noting that he’s proud to be a member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society. Vinnie encourages Rams of all ages to find a way to give back to a school that means so much to them. “It’s an opportunity to support today’s generation of students,” he says, noting that not only is
making a planned gift easy, but it’s good fiscal planning. He’s right: it’s never too soon to make a plan for your financial life and support the things most important to you.
Learn more about becoming a member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society and the gift that best meets your charitable, family and financial goals at preplegacy.org or contact Suzanne Dowden, Director, Engagement &
Development at 718-367-7500,
ext. 274 or
dowdens@fordhamprep.org
Vince DonVito ’82
Vince DonVito ’82 says he’s part of a great class by chance, but
part of a great school by choice. “From its excellent reputation
to incredible history, the Prep continues to excel in every area
and remains a sought-after choice for parents who value a Jesuit
mission-driven education for their sons – steeped in faith,
scholarship and service.”
For many of us, it’s taken for granted that Fordham Prep will always be there but it
has to be supported to grow and thrive,” says Vince. And he is doing his part through
a planned gift which includes a provision in a life insurance policy and a real estate
bequest that will support future generations of Rams. “I was inspired by the gifts I
saw my classmates making,” says Vince. “It was my goal to give larger somehow, and
this is how I can do that.”
Vince hopes his story will help foster a sense of giving to others, not out of obligation,
but in keeping with the motto of the Prep instilled in all its students to be “men for
others”. He thinks every Ram should reflect on their own years at the Prep and consider
ways to ensure that future generations of students have the same opportunities.
Legacy gifts and bequests cost you nothing during your lifetime but have a
tremendous impact on the financial sustainability of the Prep and our ability to
educate today’s students in the Jesuit tradition. Learn more about becoming a
member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society at preplegacy.org or contact
Suzanne Dowden, Director, Engagement & Development at 718-367-7500, ext. 274 or
dowdens@fordhamprep.org
dowdens@fordhamprep.org
Laurie McCormack
“Estate gifts can grow with you, allowing you to give a larger gift than maybe you thought possible.” –Laurie McCormack
Dennis McCormack had such a great experience at Fordham Prep, both as a student, and later, in Administration, as the Development Director, that he talked about it his entire life.
Sadly, Dennis passed away last year, but his widow Laurie says he always “attributed Fordham Prep with teaching him how to excel beyond what he thought was possible.” Dennis frequently talked about making a planned gift in honor of his years on Rose Hill, but unfortunately it was something he didn’t put in writing.
Determined to carry out the gift that Dennis had intended, for the school that meant so much to him, Laurie has made an estate gift in his honor. “It’s about people believing that being philanthropic and leaving behind something for others is a priority for them,” she says. “Dennis believed in that and I only wish we had done it sooner so he could have seen the start of his legacy.”
Laurie’s decision to make Fordham Prep a beneficiary of an IRA is a simple way to create a legacy. “Estate gifts can grow with you, allowing you to give a larger gift than you may have thought possible. We knew this was something we wanted to do. I feel fortunate that I can honor Dennis in a way that will support students whose lives will be forever changed by their own experiences at the Prep. Hopefully, those same students will continue Dennis’ legacy through their own future philanthropy. That would be a wonderful testament to the brotherhood and commitment that a Fordham Prep education fosters among all its Rams.”
Consider making Fordham Prep a beneficiary of your future generosity by writing the Prep into your estate plans. Without a will in place, your assets will be divided according to state law, with no regard for your interests or intentions, so be sure to make this important task a priority.
We’re here to help. Learn more about becoming a member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society and the gift that best meets your charitable, family and financial goals at Preplegacy.org or contact Suzanne Dowden, Director, Engagement & Development at 718-367-7500, ext. 274 or
dowdens@fordhamprep.org
Dennis FitzSImons ’67
Dennis FitzSimons ’67 counts himself as very fortunate to have received a Jesuit education.
He recognizes that his formative experience was made possible by his parents’ financial sacrifice. His goal now is to help other students have the same Rose Hill experience.
“Jesuits have always had a philosophy of giving, and a goal of blending socio-economic classes,” says Dennis, “and that has been a successful formula. Today, private school economics have changed and fewer families can afford a Fordham Prep education. The least I can do is try to help make Rose Hill possible for deserving students.”
Dennis went on to Fordham University and launched a successful career, always staying connected with Fordham Prep. He has supported the Prep in many ways, perhaps the most impactful being the creation of an endowed scholarship. His goal remains enabling families of modest means to send their sons to Fordham Prep, commenting that there are lots of “very bright, talented, young men in every economic class, and it’s a benefit to everyone to have deserving students attend the Prep.”
Most recently, Dennis made a gift that supports financial aid, with a portion dedicated to a civics education initiative. It included the creation and support of an annual civics symposium, something he is passionate about, believing that an increased emphasis on civics education would be a positive for today’s students.
Dennis’ support demonstrates that he’s clearly vested in the life of the school today, as well as supportive of the long-term financial sustainability of Fordham Prep through his legacy gift. “Being able to contribute to an endowed scholarship fund to help qualified young students is a privilege, and I hope others will consider supporting the school that gave us so much,” he says.
One way to do that is to make a legacy gift in your estate plan. Planned gifts and bequests cost you nothing now but have a tremendous impact on our ability to continue to offer the education of a lifetime to the next generation of students.
Learn more about becoming a member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society and the gift that best meets your charitable, family and financial goals at preplegacy.org or contact Suzanne Dowden, Director, Engagement & Development at 718-367-7500, ext. 274 or dowdens@fordhamprep.org.
A Lifelong Bond
“Like so many guys my age, I thought I wasn’t old or important enough to make an impact with a planned gift.” –JOE ALTENAU ’04
Joe Altenau ’04 was a member of Fordham Prep’s cross country and track teams. “Running together, going to meets, and even riding the bus, solidified friendships that I still have today,” he says. Christian service immersion trips to Habitat for Humanity in Tennessee were another important part of his Fordham Prep experience. For 20 years, Joe has returned to Tennessee as a Prep Chaperone.
According to Joe, “It’s a great way to connect with current students and hear what life is like at the Prep today. Being involved reminds me how special the Prep is and how important it is to help today’s Rams.”
After conversations with Fordham Prep’s Development team, Joe recently made the decision to support his alma mater through a Legacy estate gift by making the Prep a beneficiary of an investment account and his 401(k). “There’s no time like the present to solidify something as important as documenting my intentions and formalizing my future financial support to the Prep,” says Joe.
Dan Altenau '08 and Prep students in Tennessee
“There are just so many opportunities the Prep provides that are not covered by tuition and I want future students to have the experiences I did, regardless of their financial resources.” –DAN ALTENAU ’08
Dan Altenau ’08 shares his brother’s passion for the Prep. Dan thinks, “A legacy gift to the Prep is something I hadn’t thought about because of my age, but my brother prompted me to make an estate plan sooner rather than later.”
Learn more about becoming a member of the Shea-McDonough Legacy Society and the gift that best meets your charitable, family and financial goals at preplegacy.org or contact Suzanne Dowden, Director, Engagement & Development at 718-367-7500, ext. 274 or
dowdens@fordhamprep.org
There are many giving options available to you, such as naming Fordham Prep as a beneficiary in your will and charitable gift annuities that provide steady income for you and your family during your lifetime. Below you will find the information you need to make a gift to Fordham Prep.
For assistance, or to document your gift, please find our contact info below, or submit this form.
Suzanne Dowden
Assistant Vice President, Engagement & Development
Fordham Prep
441 East Fordham Road
Bronx, NY 10458
718-367-7500 ext. 274
dowdens@fordhamprep.org
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