Diane Wolcott ’75, whose passion for teaching blossomed into a distinguished career in education, credits much of her success to SUNY Geneseo. Wolcott earned degrees in BS Ed, MS Ed., and reading from Geneseo, which equipped her for diverse roles from classroom teaching to educational administration.
“Throughout my studies, I had excellent professors that encouraged me to stretch my thinking, take a course, do an independent study, and explore options,” she says. “They were educators, cheerleaders, and friends that celebrated milestones with me.”
According to Wolcott, Geneseo tailors its educational approach to meet students where they are instead of fitting them into a preconceived academic mold. “Public education is about creating an environment where diverse student populations can learn and grow together,” she states. “I firmly believe in the power of education to open doors.”
This belief in the power of public education, nurtured by her Geneseo experience, has profoundly influenced Wolcott’s philanthropic choices. She gives back to the institution that shaped her through Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs). This choice is a strategic one, reflecting her understanding of effective philanthropy.
By using QCDs, Wolcott can make significant donations directly from her IRA, lowering her taxable income and enhancing the value of her contributions. “Opting for QCDs is a reflection of my commitment to education and my desire to support Geneseo substantially and sustainably,” Wolcott explains. “It’s not always about how much you give, but how you give it.”
Wolcott’s approach to giving is a holistic contribution to the future of education. “It’s a pragmatic way to contribute,” she notes. “Through QCDs, I can assist Geneseo in its mission to deliver an exceptional education and to help prepare these young adults to make a meaningful impact in our world—now and for generations to come.”
Interested in utilizing Qualified Charitable Distributions? Learn more here: https://www.geneseo.edu/support/qcd
