Perks of Giving Back

Mary and Joe Pankowski's strongest ties to Florida State University's mission and work are through the fields of education, public service and law—and what they have in common.

"They are marvelously intertwined in terms of a commitment to making a difference in people's lives," Mary says.

Making a difference has been important to the Pankowskis throughout their education and careers.

Mary has worked at FSU for more than 25 years. She has two degrees from the university—a doctorate in education and a law degree. She currently teaches the juvenile law course for the FSU College of Law as an Adjunct Professor.

Husband Joe interacted with FSU first, through his role directing a state training program in vocational rehabilitation. FSU helps educate the workforce through a master's in rehabilitation counseling for full-time counselors.

"It was an outstanding program that met our needs and their needs," says Joe, who is now retired. "I was blown away by the quality of instruction."

Among other gifts, the Pankowskis chose to make significant contributions to FSU through charitable gift annuities, or gifts that pay income throughout your lifetime.

"It helped ensure our financial security with the life income," Mary says. "It also provided an immediate tax deduction. Charitable gift annuities allow us to live well but give back at the same time. It's a marvelous win-win."

Their gifts honor their love for FSU and are a message to others.

"We hope that knowing about planned giving strategies such as charitable gift annuities will help other potential donors realize that they, too, can make major gifts to the university while securing their own future," Mary says.

Discover the Benefits of Giving Back

Establishing a life income gift to benefit FSU pays in many ways. Contact The Office of Gift and Estate Planning at (850) 644-0753 or giftplanning@foundation.fsu.edu to learn more.