Past, Present and Future
Sara Bernice Moseley and the late John D. Moseley, former first lady and president emeritus of Austin College, wanted to participate in the College’s 1999-2004 New Era Campaign.
Their most valuable asset was their home located across the street from campus. They gave their home to the College in the form of a retained life estate. The gift provided the College a valuable gift to be counted toward the New Era Campaign and a substantial income tax deduction to the Moseleys.
The Moseleys moved to Sherman in 1953 when John D. was appointed the 12th president of Austin College. Dr. Moseley left the presidency in 1978, continuing as chancellor until his retirement in 1981. In October 2003, John D. and Sara Bernice Moseley celebrated 50 years with the Austin College community with their honorary induction to the Golden ‘Roo Society (recognition for alumni of 50 years or more). Dr. Moseley died in 2009 and is recognized as one of the College’s most influential presidents. Sara Bernice remains a College favorite and namesake for a scholarship program for students from Presbyterian (U.S.A.) congregations
Because they retained a life interest in the property, Mrs. Moseley continues to reside in the home and will do so for as long as she lives. It will become College property thereafter. The Moseleys’ adult children, Sara Caroline, John Jr., and Rebecca, enthusiastically supported this gift to the College.
For more information about retained life estates, please contact us at plannedgiving@austincollege.edu or 903.813.2336.
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