Fred Clifford '54 has been a proponent of planned giving at Nobles and at his alma mater, Williams College. "I am consistently lobbying for organizations to put more of a focus on it," says Clifford. "It does not need to be complicated or fancy, especially when individuals stick to simple bequests—putting an organization in their will as a percent of their estate or a specific dollar amount."

Clifford made a deferred gift in the form of a bequest to Nobles in 2013 and continues to serve as a leading voice for promoting such gifts within the Nobles community. He understands that education is key; individuals must feel comfortable with the process and know the benefits before they make such a personal decision. "Many people do not know that not only are there important tax advantages that come along with bequests, but Nobles and many other organizations recognize the full face value of the gift in the year that the bequest was made," explains Clifford. "It is a wonderful option for donors hoping to make a large, philanthropic impact, yet who do not have the immediate cash on hand or short-term assets to do so."

As a member of the board of trustees for over 30 years, nine of which he served as president, Clifford has seen first-hand the role that development has played in strengthening all facets of the Nobles educational experience, from enhancing facilities and programming to bolstering faculty compensation and financial aid. "I love Nobles and know how vital philanthropy has been and is to the school. I realized that, through a bequest, I could support it at a larger level—the most impactful level I could—and I have always encouraged my classmates and those from my era to do so as well," states Clifford.

For Clifford, a planned gift might be the most practical way to make an impact, yet there is more to it than this. He believes, ultimately, it is about protecting and strengthening Nobles' legacy. "We only live on this earth for so long, but institutions that I have supported and believe in, like Nobles, will carry out their work long after I am gone," reflects Clifford. "I am confident my bequest will help Nobles stay true to its mission and uphold the culture and values that I cherish well into the future."

Fred Clifford '54 is a former president and member of the Nobles board of trustees. He has volunteered for the school in countless capacities over the years, including as a member of the Graduates Council and Annual Nobles Fund Executive Committee, and as a class agent. He also was a member of his class's 45th, 50th and 60th Reunion Committees. He is a parent to three Nobles graduates and, currently, has two grandchildren who attend Nobles.