A bequest from Margaret N. Beshore, a University of Michigan School of Information alumna, is helping students secure financial assistance and finish their degrees. 

Beshore, who passed away in 2017, graduated from UMSI with a degree in library science in 1954. She went on to serve public libraries in California, Kansas, Missouri and Virginia before retiring as supervisor of adult services at the Fairfax County Public Library. 

Her generous gift has been added to the graduate student scholarship fund, which provides direct financial assistance to graduate students pursuing their degrees at UMSI. 

“We are incredibly grateful for the generous support of our alumni and understand how meaningful it is when we are included in their estate plans,” says Thomas Finholt, dean at UMSI. “The gift from the Beshore family illustrates how support from alumni can transform future generations of students.” 

A third of graduate students at UMSI benefit from financial support through the graduate student scholarship fund, says Laura Elgas, executive director for academic and student affairs. Helping students secure financial support and removing barriers to success plays a big role in encouraging students to meet their academic goals. 

“This is great support for students,” Elgas says. “UMSI has put a lot of emphasis on supporting students in their education and putting these funds directly towards helping them.”

A bequest is a transfer, by will, of cash, stocks or tangible assets to an individual or a charitable organization. For alumni and supporters of UMSI, a charitable bequest is an ideal way to thoughtfully give and help generations of students realize their dreams through financial assistance. 

“We are grateful that many alumni of UMSI have chosen to include the school in their wills,” says Lauren Cecil, executive director for development & alumni relations. “It represents the impact that UMSI had on their lives, and it is truly an honor to be included in someone's life plans. ” 

To inform UMSI of a future bequest and qualify for a membership in the University of Michigan's John Monteith Legacy Society, use this form.