Sandi Redenbach and Ken Gelatt know the power of teachers to shape young lives. As teachers they led by example for more than 40 years, guiding students to imagine a better future and providing the tools they need to reach their goals.

Leading by example is one reason Sandi and Ken wanted to be the first alumni to include the School of Education in their estate plans. A belief in the power of education to change lives and a commitment to leave a legacy for the future compelled these veteran educators to pay it forward.

“Education has been the path to my value system,” said Redenbach. “It proves to me that with education anyone can overcome obstacles and work toward a life of fulfillment and contribution. Through education, I discovered who I am and how I can effectively contribute to others.”

“I think we all have a responsibility to give back,” said Gelatt. “I want to use this gift as a way to let people know that it’s not hard to do. You don’t need to be a millionaire. All of us can do more than we think, especially educators.”

Thanks to their generosity, future teachers will be able to pursue their passion, leading the next generation on the path to a lifetime of success.

For more information on planned giving options, contact Jon Parro, assistant dean for external relations and development, at jparro@ucdavis.edu or (530) 754-7024.