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Leave a Gift in Your Will

Whether Exeter shaped your own journey or you've witnessed the difference it makes, a gift in your Will carries that forward, ensuring the opportunities and discoveries you value continue to transform lives. 

Read our digital legacy brochure      Request a printed guide

Why leave a gift to Exeter? 

People who remember Exeter in their Will tell us they want to: 

  • Open doors for talented students who deserve the same chances to thrive. 
  • Champion the research that aligns with what they care about most, whether that's finding answers to dementia, protecting our planet, or advancing social justice.

Your impact can last forever 

Choose to support our Exeter Forever Endowment Fund and we’ll invest your gift and only spend the returns, so your legacy will keep giving to Exeter, forever. 

Our promises to you 

  • Friends and family come first. We know that those closest to you are your priority. 
  • Life changes. If you need to update your Will, we understand completely. 
  • We'll honour your wishes. We'll use your gift exactly as you intend. 

Join the Reed Circle community 

When you share your plans with us, you become part of a community of people who've woven Exeter into their life story. Reed Circle members gather for exclusive events like carol services, garden parties and campus tours, where you’ll meet students supported by legacy gifts and hear about our latest research. 

We also offer naming opportunities as lasting recognition for transformational gifts. 

Let us know about your gift

Reed Hall

Stories from our Reed Circle Community 

My time at Exeter was formative. I emerged more confident, with real self-belief. The thought that I can help someone achieve their potential, and give them the same opportunity I had, is extremely satisfying.

Bettina Rigg

Law, 1978

As one of the first generation in my family to attend university, Exeter was a formative influence on my life. I would like future generations to have that privilege. This is why I’ll be remembering Exeter in my Will.

Melody Dougan

BA History, 1958

How gifts in Wills make a difference 

Supporting medical students 

Connie White left over £2 million to fund bursaries for medical students from the South West. Her gift ensures talented students can study close to home, regardless of their background. 

Advancing research 

Stuart Handley's passion for discovery lives on through his £1.3 million gift, driving research into dementia, diabetes and marine plastics while supporting the next generation of students. A teaching space in the Physics building is named in his honour. 

Planting for the future 

Anne Van Geyzel cherished the University grounds. Her £1,000 gift planted 25 trees at Birks Grange – a living memorial to her connection with Exeter. 

How to include Exeter in your Will 

Free Will writing services 

We've partnered with the National Free Wills Network and Farewill to offer free, straightforward Will writing for anyone in the UK over 18. 

Adding Exeter to your Will 

If you're working with your own solicitor, we can provide suggested wording, charity details, and guidance on tax benefits that might help your gift go further. 

Find out more

Already included Exeter in your Will? 

Thank you for making us part of your story. Please let us know so we can thank you properly, invite you to Reed Circle events, and ensure we honour your wishes. 

The University of Exeter is an exempt charity, number: X9538 

Get in touch 

Claire Panzeri, Legacy Development Officer, is here to listen and answer questions. There's no obligation, just a conversation about what matters to you. 

Email: legacies@exeter.ac.uk 

Phone: 01392 723141 
Book a call: Schedule your time with Claire Panzeri

Any information you choose to provide is treated in strictest confidence.