Dr. Kelly Downey '76

"As the parents of four children and both physicians, for years the biggest concern my husband and I had when meeting with our attorney to draft a will was always "Who will be their guardian and how can we make sure we have provided for them should something happen to us." These meetings were always stressful, lengthy and avoided as often as possible. But suddenly, one year ago, the entire tone of the meeting was different: a major milestone had occurred. Our youngest child was now 18 years of age in college and legally independent. Our older three children were all college graduates and living independently! Now we really had to plan for our own future and think about what was important to us for the future rather than focus on their needs.

I am extremely thankful that both my husband and I agreed that primarily we wanted the proceeds of our estate to be used to give back to those institutions and causes we felt were important to us throughout our lifetime. While many parents hope to leave something for their children, we felt it far more important to use this final opportunity to help others. When our attorney asked us individually to list our first three beneficiaries, I immediately responded "Scripps College". The attorney suggested I take a moment to reflect but I knew I didn't need anytime whatsoever to reflect: Scripps was my number one choice.

I feel strongly about the institution that allowed me to become the person I am today. My education at Scripps taught me to think independently, learn to question and to solve problems as well as providing me with life-long friendships! When I attended medical school, I constantly in my mind thanked the faculty at the Joint Sciences Department for the education I received. My success as a physician, while influenced by my medical school, is far more shaped by my four years at Scripps. Including Scripps in my will is my way of saying "Thank-you" one last time."