A. Richard Deitering '63

Dick '63 and Jan Deitering believe in the value of a Saint Mary's University education and are giving back by designating the university as a beneficiary of Dick's retirement plan. Two of their three children graduated from Saint Mary's and their daughter also received her M.A. in education from the university. "One of the reasons that we remember Saint Mary's in our estate planning is the very fact that we probably would not have been able to send two of our children there if the tuition [and other costs] had not been indirectly paid (or subsidized) by benefactors to the school. And now it is our turn!"

Dick and Jan grew up in a small Iowa town, and after college and Dick's tour of duty in the army, he returned home to work, marry Jan, and raise their family. For Dick, the size of Saint Mary's was perfect, and college was an experience completely different from life in a farming community. Today, Dick appreciates the education he received at Saint Mary's, the influence of the Christian Brothers, and the friendships formed many years ago. He and Jan want to help ensure that Saint Mary's continues to be available for future students who want to have a small school experience. For them, a planned gift fits perfectly with their desire to make a difference.