For Ellen Lindgren, a charitable giving legacy is a natural extension of a lifelong commitment to supporting education.

“I see the Foundation as a wonderful way to provide experiences for our students and staff that are beyond what our district budget can afford,” she says. “I was an early advocate for the creation of the Foundation and haven’t looked back!”

A longtime supporter of the MCPASD district, Lindgren has been involved with the Education Foundation since it was founded in 2011, when she was serving on the MCPASD school board.

“When I was on the school board, I heard about other districts with successful foundations,” Lindgren explains. “It seemed like a big oversight in a district with so many resources that our district didn’t have a foundation to accept donations for worthwhile opportunities for our students.”

Already a member of the Foundation’s board of directors, Lindgren is taking her support a step further by deciding to make the Foundation part of her legacy.

Her gift will support efforts to improve student achievement across all demographic groups by focusing on equitable practices. Specifically, her gift will go towards the Grow Your Own initiative that aims to increase the number of teachers of color in the district.

“Hopefully my gift will enable a student of color to go to college to become a teacher in our district, adding much needed diversity to our staff,” Lindgren explains. “This is a program that I’m passionate about which will make a big difference in our schools.”

Lindgren’s generosity and philanthropic efforts aren’t limited to the MCPASD district. She also supports local and worldwide organizations, including Doctors Without Borders, Wisconsin Public Education Network, Boys and Girls Club, GSAFE, and Kids Forward, among others. 

“Everyone wants to make a difference in the world; leaving a positive legacy is a given for me to do,” Lindgren says. “As the Foundation has been a part of the rhythm of my life, it only makes sense to leave a gift to it to benefit the district.”

Lindgren offers advice for those considering making a legacy gift.

“If you are contemplating how to leave your estate, I encourage you to put the Education Foundation at the top of your list,” she says. “You have great flexibility in what area you want to benefit from your gift. It’s a sure way to make a lasting, positive difference in our community.” 

Learn more about planned giving at the Education Foundation.