York is immensely grateful for the support of our donors who help to build and sustain the university through legacy giving. We recognize the generosity of alumni and friends who remember the university with a gift in their Will or other future legacy gift commitment with membership in the White Rose Legacy Circle .
Since 2012, York University has welcomed hundreds of individuals to the White Rose Legacy Circle. By making a legacy gift to York, you become part of this special growing group of York supporters who foster our future success by creating scholarships, providing financial aid, establishing new centres of discovery and funding all aspects of learning and teaching. However you choose to support York, your membership in the White Rose Legacy Circle will create an enduring legacy and inspire all who share your vision for York’s future.
"I joined the White Rose Legacy Circle because it's important to help people who need a helping hand. I encourage everyone to consider making a legacy gift to acknowledge those institutions and agencies that meant something to them during their lifetime."— Russell D. Smith, York University Alumnus
Benefits of Membership
- A lifelong relationship with York University—you will be a part of our inner family circle.
- A permanent legacy at York that will benefit future students and researchers.
- Access to special events, which are tailored to your interests, such as student performances or lectures by York’s scholars.
- An elegant White Rose Legacy Circle membership pin and a special certificate of recognition.
- Inclusion in donor recognition lists and University publications, if desired, or you may choose to remain anonymous – the choice is yours.
The symbol of the white rose pays homage to the installation of York University’s first chancellor, Air Marshal Wilfred A. Curtis. In 1961, Lord James of Rusholme, vice-chancellor designate of the University of York in the United Kingdom, planted a white rose bush at Glendon to celebrate Curtis’s installation and the opening of York University’s first campus. The white rose, which also appears on York’s official shield, has since become an enduring symbol of York’s past accomplishments and future promise.
Please complete this Legacy Intention form to help ensure your estate plans are carried out and allow us to express our appreciation during your lifetime. If you would like to learn more about York University’s community of legacy donors, or have any questions, please connect with Marisa Barlas, Director of Development, Legacy Giving at 416-650-8221 or barlas@yorku.ca. We can help you explore options and provide you with further information.
Thank you for your foresight and commitment to York’s future.