Donor Spotlight: Fay and Richard Hudgins P’85

When parents lose a child, the loss and heartbreak is felt forever. Such a tragedy befell Pitzer parents Forough "Fay" and Richard Hudgins P'85 when they lost their daughter, Leanora Hudgins, a 1985 Pitzer College graduate, more than 20 years ago.

"It's been 22 years since she's been gone, and talking about it is still hard. I still cry. It's very heartbreaking," said Mrs. Hudgins, who first came to the US from Iran to study at USC. Richard Hudgins was born in Kansas, joined the US Army at age 16 and studied architecture.

To honor Leanora's memory, the Hudgins decided to support the institution that gave their daughter an unforgettable education and a transformative life experience: Pitzer College. They established a two-life charitable gift annuity, which helps Pitzer but also provides them with quarterly income for the rest of their lives.

"Leanora was so happy at Pitzer," Mrs. Hudgins said. "She was an only child, and lonely, but when she went to Pitzer she made many friends. At Pitzer, she was at peace. She liked her teachers. Pitzer had such a warm and friendly atmosphere."

Pitzer College impacted Fay Hudgins' education and life as well. Leanora's college years inspired her to return to school and earn a second master's degree: "We used to laugh that we both finished school at the same time."

While at Pitzer, Leanora earned her degree in English and world literature. The planned gift her parents made to Pitzer not only honors her life and the College that was so special to her, it represents their belief in education.

"Education is the future of the country. It is the best thing," Mrs. Hudgins said. "And although there are many educational institutions all over the country, Pitzer was tailored for my daughter."

Contact Lily Shin at 909.621.8432 or plannedgiving@pitzer.edu for additional information on bequests or to chat more about the different options for including Pitzer in your will or estate plan.