Gerald '51 and Vivian Nerud '51 Kahle
"The great contribution we can make is to prepare the oncoming generations to think that they can and will think for themselves."
—Dr. Charles Mayo, co-founder of the Mayo Clinic
This concept was foremost in the minds of Gerald '51 and Vivian Nerud '51 Kahle when they purchased a Charitable Gift Annuity in 2006 that will establish an endowed scholarship upon their deaths. Estate gifts have long been a primary source to fund the Doane University endowment and the resulting scholarships.
It's probably safe to say that Jerry was not thinking about endowed scholarships when he first became acquainted with his future wife. Although both grew up in Saline County, they didn't know each other until a chance meeting their freshman year at Doane. At that time, both families lived in north Crete. Vivian was returning home from escorting her sister to her job at the movie theatre, and Jerry was on his way to meet high school buddies at the pool hall before heading up to the Friday night football game.
That October night in 1947 changed their lives. They crossed paths at the railroad tracks and started talking. Jerry never made it to the football game. He ended up walking Vivian home.
They both attended Doane from 1947-1951. Vivian majored in English, earning her teaching certificate in elementary education. She taught in the Columbus Ohio school system while Jerry attended graduate school at Ohio State University.
Jerry was double major in chemistry and mathematics, going on to earn a MS degree in analytical chemistry and a Ph.D. in organic chemistry. Jerry was employed by Phillips Petroleum Company for 29 years. He is an author and co-author of 29 U.S. patents, numerous foreign patents and 11 technical journal papers.
When deciding how to give back to their alma mater, a Charitable Gift Annuity seemed like a perfect match for the Kahles. It allowed them to make a substantial gift — large enough to endow a scholarship at Doane - while ensuring them income for life.
Jerry and Vivian have never forgotten their Crete and Doane University roots, although they have spent time throughout the United States and substantial time in Europe with Phillips Petroleum. Endowing a scholarship allows them to give back to the place that opened doors for them.
Jerry remarked, "Upon reflection of our investments and charities, I have found that a charitable gift annuity to a university is one of the best charities I can think of. If set up as a schlolarship, sometime in the future a student will acquire some needed financial support. Meanwhile, you will receive a very generous income on your gift and a significant tax savings."
A Charitable Gift Annuity is a simple arrangement that has far reaching consequences. We hope you will investigate this possibility to enhance your philanthropic efforts for Doane University.