Thinking of including Ghent University in your will? We’re here to listen!
Are you considering leaving a gift to Ghent University in your will? Then you will most likely come into contact with Terry Ediers and Elien Wanzeele from the University Fund. First off, they will take the time to listen to your wishes and questions.
Imagine someone wants to make a donation to Ghent University. How do you approach it?
ELIEN “Whenever people contact us, we first try to find out about their personal interests and motivation. Why are they thinking about Ghent University? Why do they feel an affinity with a particular field of research? If they wish, we can also take a look together at the situation of the prospective testator with an eye to making a will. In any case, we also advise them to consult a notary, but this is not mandatory.”
TERRY “We are happy for prospective testators to decide for themselves how to go about things. If people prefer to meet us in their home, we are very glad to come by. If they prefer to come to see in the Rectorate, that is also possible. The most important thing for us is that they feel comfortable. We take as much time as necessary for this.”
And if someone prefers to stay anonymous, is it possible?
TERRY “Although personal contact is very important for us, we of course have the utmost respect for people who want to protect their anonymity. If someone prefers to contact us by phone or via email, that’s also fine. Here too, the most important thing is for us to respect the wishes of the prospective testator."
Our task is to ensure that a legacy is put to use just as the testator intended.”
ELIEN “One hundred percent of whatever you choose to give to Ghent University as a donation or legacy will go to your chosen cause in full. We see that for many people this is a deciding factor. As far as we know, this is the only good cause in Flanders where this is the case. Moreover, you can also design your legacy in a very targeted way based on your own interests or passions.”
TERRY “Don’t forget that our university has already existed for over 200 years. There’s a very good chance that we will still be here for another 200 years! (laughs). In other words, we are an extremely stable and secure option.”
How do you help people who are looking for a cause to support at Ghent University?
ELIEN “Often when they come to see us, people already have an idea of which cause they want to support in their will. However, this is not necessary. For example, an animal lover might still be deciding which cause they want to support within the faculty of Veterinary Medicine. We are very happy to help these people further.”
TERRY “I myself have already been working at Ghent University for thirty years, so I have an extremely good idea of what researchers are working on, and where the greatest needs and societal challenges are. Within Ghent University there are 1001 different options where a donation can make a huge difference.
Legacy brochure
In the brochure of the University Fund you can find out more about:
- People like you who chose to include Ghent University in their will
- The impact your will can have on research
- How Ghent University can advise you
Would you like to have a copy of the brochure sent to you by post?
Request a brochure (only available in Dutch)
Contact us
We advise you to prepare your will as carefully as possible, with proper reflection and expert advice.
Do you have questions, or maybe you would like to find out more about charitable causes at Ghent University? Please get in touch with Terry or Elien at the University Fund.
universiteitsfonds@ugent.be
Terry +32 9 264 83 31
Elien +32 9 264 33 88