Dear *|FIRST_NAME|*,

As we close another academic year, I’m pleased to share the inspiring story of Dr. Esther Hays, whose passion for cleaner air is creating a lasting impact at UC Riverside.

After retiring with her husband, Dr. Daniel Hays, to his hometown of Riverside, Esther discovered a new calling: helping improve air quality and environmental health in our region. Through a planned gift, she established the Esther and Daniel Hays Endowed Chair in Environmental Research, ensuring future generations of students and researchers can advance solutions to pressing environmental challenges.

Esther’s story is a powerful reminder that a planned gift can reflect your values, honor your passions, and create a legacy that endures for generations. If you have been considering how you might make a lasting impact at UCR, I would welcome the opportunity to talk with you about the charitable planning options available and help you find an approach that aligns with your vision.

As I complete my first year as Senior Director of Gift Planning, I also want to thank you for the conversations, stories, and insights you have shared with me. I have been continually inspired by your commitment to UCR and your belief in the power of education to transform lives.

Thank you for all you do to strengthen the future of UCR and our students. I wish you a wonderful summer and look forward to connecting with you in the coming year.

With great appreciation,

Matt Durkan

Senior Director of Development, Gift Planning

matt.durkan@ucr.edu | (951) 827-1807

A Catalyst for Excellence

Following a career in medicine as a clinician and educator, Dr. Esther Hays discovered a new passion after retiring with her pediatric surgeon husband Daniel to his hometown of Riverside, air pollution.

Sharing Our Future

Do you find yourself wondering what the future will look like? Such thoughts cross most people’s minds, whether it be specific to what lies ahead for future family generations, or more broadly to what challenges will be faced and necessary innovations in our community, locally or globally.

Your Legacy at UC Riverside

Planned giving enables UC Riverside to achieve a higher measure of excellence in everything we do. Planned gifts help us fuel research, empower students, build a world-class campus, and fund community engagement — all while helping you, your loved ones, and your estate.

Every gift, no matter the size, helps us to advance our mission of education, research, and service. Whether you choose to support a specific college, a scholarship fund, or an area of greatest need, your generosity is a direct investment in the bold hearts and brilliant minds that define UC Riverside.

Visit our new website to learn about the many ways you can make your impact at UC Riverside with a planned gift.

900 University Ave.
Riverside, CA 92521

Tel: (951) 827-1012

Get in touch:

Matt Durkan
Senior Director of Development,

Gift Planning
matt.durkan@ucr.edu | (951) 827-1807

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