Terra Seidel, M.A. ’09 hopes to encourage others to give
Indianapolis— Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy alumni board member and alumna Terra Seidel, M.A. ’09, and her husband Kevin Seidel have made a legacy gift to the school valued at $1.2 million.
The 2023 Distinguished Alumna Award recipient said leaving a legacy that will help others is more important to her than a professional title or even her extensive volunteer work. Seidel wants to support others who, like her, are driven by their faith to learn about and work in the philanthropy sector.
The bequest is designated for scholarships, including for students or faith leaders taking courses through the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, who demonstrate both financial need and an interest in faith and philanthropy. “The faith component was important to me,” said Seidel. “We’re thinking of those whose faith plays a role in why they want to give back to society through their education and through their vocation. We want to honor them and it’s important for us to cheer them on.”
Seidel personally relates to those who are led to the philanthropy sector by faith. One of the things that drew her to the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy was that she could be open to the things that were important to her and make her goals a reality through education. She wants this gift to give others the same opportunity.
The Lilly Family School of Philanthropy is home to the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, which fosters a deeper understanding of the dynamic relationship between faith and giving through research, education and public conversation.
“We thank Terra and Kevin for all the ways they support our school and for this generous gift, which will help students and faith leaders further their education and make a lasting difference for others,” said Amir Pasic, Ph.D., the Eugene R. Tempel Dean of the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. “Terra exemplifies philanthropy through her generosity, leadership, and commitment to service.”
Seidel hopes the legacy gift will encourage others to consider planned giving. She emphasizes that it isn’t about writing a large check in the moment but putting a plan in writing. “You don’t have to wait,” she said. “You can make a bequest at any age. Helping a student succeed is within everyone’s reach — scholarships make it possible. It’s easier than you think!”
About the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy
The Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy is dedicated to improving philanthropy to improve the world by training and empowering students and professionals to be innovators and leaders who create positive and lasting change. The school offers a comprehensive approach to philanthropy through its undergraduate, graduate, certificate and professional development programs, its research and international programs, and through The Fund Raising School, Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, Mays Family Institute on Diverse Philanthropy, Women’s Philanthropy Institute, and the Muslim Philanthropy Initiative. Follow us on X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, or Instagram and “Like” us on Facebook.