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The West Society

Donors make a difference by impacting the work and mission of Meharry Medical College with their support.

The Harold D. West Society of Meharry Medical College recognizes individuals who have included Meharry in their estate plans.

This society is named in honor of Harold D. West. Sr., Ph.D., the fifth president and the first African American president of Meharry Medical College, serving from 1952 to 1966. A visionary leader, Dr. West spearheaded a $20-million-dollar national fundraising campaign in 1959 that doubled the endowment and increased grants for training, research and public service tenfold. Under his leadership, Meharry tripled the number of faculty and significantly increased research funding.

Planned and deferred gifts from Meharry alumni and friends have provided a significant source of long-term financial support for the college.

Membership in The West Society is granted to individuals who have notified the college of their intention to make a planned or deferred gift to Meharry via a bequest, life insurance, beneficiary designation, charitable trust, charitable gift annuity, or other giving vehicle. No minimum gift amount is required for membership.

West Society members are recognized for their gifts in the annual Honor Roll of Donors and other Meharry publications, unless a member wishes to remain anonymous. Members will also receive invitations to exclusive events and educational seminars held throughout the year on topics related to wealth management and estate planning, featuring experts in estate and tax law, investment management, and retirement planning. Many gatherings are held virtually to allow for broad participation, regardless of your place of residence.

If you have already included (or are planning to include) Meharry in your estate plans, please let us know. Informing us allows our Gift Planning staff to assist you in gaining the greatest benefit from your gift, plan for Meharry's future based on your deferred commitment, and say "thank you" for your generosity and forethought.