Posted May 27, 2026 in Articles
An estate plan is more than a legal safeguard, it reflects your values, your priorities, and the legacy you wish to leave behind.
As you plan, consider your goals, your financial and personal priorities, and how you want to support both your family and the causes that matter most to you. Many individuals begin by consulting their attorney and tax advisors. Cleveland State University is also here to partner with you and your advisors as you explore your options.
Ways to Include Cleveland State University in Your Estate Plan
Below are some of the most common ways to include CSU in your estate plan. Please visit our website and view our How to Give resources for more information on leaving your legacy.
Bequest in a Will or Trust
A bequest allows you to designate a specific amount, percentage of your estate, or asset to Cleveland State University and may provide a charitable estate tax deduction. You can choose to support scholarships, academic programs, or the area of greatest need. There are differences between establishing a will or trust, and your advisors can guide you in what is best for your circumstances and goals.
Beneficiary Designations
Naming CSU as a beneficiary of a retirement or bank account is one of the simplest and most tax-efficient ways to make a meaningful gift. Simply complete the forms provided by your institution to designate CSU as a beneficiary of your plan and then let us know of your decision.
Because these assets pass to CSU income tax-free, your full gift supports student success and University priorities—while potentially reducing the tax burden on your heirs.
Gifts of Life Insurance
If you have a life insurance policy you no longer need, it can be a powerful way to give. By naming CSU as a beneficiary or transferring ownership of the policy, you may receive potential tax benefits while creating a future gift to the University.
IRA Charitable Rollover Gifts
Beginning at age 70.5, you can donate directly through your IRA to CSU and lower your income tax, especially beneficial if you do not need the proceeds from your IRA distributions for living expenses. Beginning at age 73, these gifts can satisfy all or part of your Required Minimum Distribution.
Income-Producing Charitable Gifts
Options such as charitable gift annuities and charitable remainder trusts can provide income for you or your loved ones while also supporting CSU. These gifts offer a way to achieve both financial security and philanthropic impact.
Conclusion
For many Cleveland State University alumni, their legacy includes supporting the students, programs, and mission that helped shape their lives. By incorporating Cleveland State University into your estate plan, you can create a meaningful, lasting impact—often more simply than you might expect.
With thoughtful planning today, you can create a legacy that supports CSU students, programs, and innovation tomorrow.
Take the Next Step
If you are considering including Cleveland State University in your estate plan, we are here to help.
Contact Constance Karapleou, Senior Director, Gift and Estate Planning
? 216.875.9838
? c.karapelou@csuohio.edu
? www.supportcsu.org
If you have already included CSU in your plan, we would be grateful to hear from you. Sharing your intentions allows us to ensure your gift is used as you envision and to recognize your generosity through membership in our Legacy Society.
Together, we can create opportunities for future generations of CSU students.
