Benefits of Planned Giving

Ann Arbor, MI — September 15, 2011 — The University of Michigan School of Dentistry’s Graduate Program in Endodontics has received a $25,000 gift from the estate of Dr. John English who earned his dental degree from U-M in 1966 and a master’s degree in endodontics in 1972.  The Grand Rapids endodontist, who practiced for about 40 years before he retired, passed away June 5.

Dr. English’s daughter, Brenda Dunham, said, “the things that were dear to my father, he held close to his heart, and his days at Michigan were among those.”  Dunham said her father returned to U-M every year for Homecoming Weekend activities.  “Dad may have had an influence on my brother, Eric, because he graduated with a dental degree from Michigan in 1993.”

Richard Fetchiet, director of alumni relations, development, and continuing dental education, said, “I enjoyed spending time with Dr. English.  He was a good friend of many at the School, and his commitment to endodontics is reflected in his generous gift.”

“Dr. English’s gift to the School of Dentistry emphasizes the importance of planned giving because it demonstrates how you can enhance your lifetime support for a project or program that is important to you,” Fetchiet said.  Other benefits, he added, include avoiding probate, taking advantage of tax laws, and helping to lessen the burdens on surviving family members. 

Stephen Bayne, chair of the Department of Cariology, Restorative Sciences, and Endodontics, said, “Dr. English was an ardent supporter of the School and its endodontics program.  He is a good example of the reason why the endodontics program at Michigan has flourished for such a long time.”

For more information, click http://www.dent.umich.edu/alumnirelations/development/giving