OMSI Emeritus Board Member Provides Bequest and Inspiration
"OMSI to me is a place that inspires learning. I see OMSI as a catalyst, a convener, and as a place for all ages to come together to share learning about science and technology." This is something often expressed by Penny Serrurier, a Past Chair of OMSI's Board of Trustees.
As a frequent visitor to OMSI, Penny remembers playing with her two boys in Science Playground. She heard only good things about OMSI, our President Emeritus, Nancy Stueber, and the entrepreneurial spirit of the museum, and felt compelled to volunteer her time on the Board of Trustees for eight years, participating in both the executive and development committees.
Coming from a family of active community members, it has been ingrained in her that service for a greater good is one of the most important things that you can do. As she became more deeply connected to OMSI's mission and vision, she looked for additional ways to support OMSI. It was a natural step for Penny to volunteer as a Trustee.
In addition to her annual donations and volunteering schedule, Penny decided that making a planned gift could be another way to support an organization she cares so much about. With so many ways to make a planned gift, Penny chose one of the simplest methods. She specified a bequest in her will to OMSI. When asked why she chose to make a planned gift, Penny responded,
"It's really satisfying that after my lifetime the good work will continue on. If I can make a contribution that will help sustain the efforts and impact that OMSI is making to better our community, I am happy to do that."
Penny believes that by making a provision for OMSI in her estate plan will not only help keep OMSI financially stable to ensure that hands-on science learning is possible. It will also inspire others to join her in the J.C. Stevens Legacy Society.
When not volunteering with OMSI, Penny is a Partner at Stoel Rives LLP practicing law in the areas of tax-exempt organizations, charitable giving, estate planning and administration, business succession planning, and personal tax planning. She loves spending time with her family, running, and reading for her book club.
OMSI thanks Penny for making plans to support OMSI well into the future as a member of the J.C. Stevens Legacy Society.
If you would like more information about making a gift through your estate plans or retirement account, please contact Andrew Haight at [email protected] or (503) 797-4669.
About the J.C. Stevens Legacy Society
The J.C. Stevens Legacy Society, named after OMSI's visionary founder, recognizes donors who have included OMSI in their estate plan. We are pleased to extend special invitations to exclusive OMSI events and private tours to Legacy Society members. All you need to do is tell OMSI that your plan is in place and that you are willing to be publicly listed on the J.C. Stevens Legacy Society honor roll, setting the example for others to follow. If you wish, your gift can remain anonymous.