Couple plants a seed for the future

Pikes make generous contribution to Catholic education

Gifts come in all shapes and sizes. We are consistently awed by the generosity of our donors, both here in the Fairbanks community and thousands of miles away. 

This column spotlights the very same couple that allowed us to share their love story last month: Bill and Marsha Pike. 

Bill and Marsha met 25 years ago (1991) at the annual HIPOW Auction & Dinner. Bill, whose four daughters attended Monroe, was not a stranger to the schools. He had volunteered at HIPOW for many years, and Julie, his youngest daughter graduated from Monroe in 1991—the Spring before Bill and Marsha met. Marsha was a relatively new addition to the HIPOW office. The couple married in 1992, the year after they met at HIPOW.

“We wanted to make a lasting donation while we are still living to see the fruit of our donation,” explained Marsha. “We talked with our financial advisor and he made it happen for us and for the school.”

The Pikes donated an endowed account managed by Merrill Lynch. The earnings can be spent however the administration chooses, but the principal remains intact.

“Think of it like a seed that has been planted that can keep growing. And as the initial investment grows, so do the earnings,” explained Marsha.

“It is our hope that others will recognize the opportunity to invest in the future of the Catholic Schools of Fairbanks and make a contribution to the endowed fund. Every little bit counts,” said Bill. 

We are grateful for the Pikes’ contribution.

The Pikes urge you to talk with your accountant and their Merrill Lynch financial advisor. You, too, can make a lasting gift now.  Bill and Marsha would enjoy talking with you about their inspiration.

The Pikes’ generosity doesn’t end here. They also put us in their will. 

Bill and Marsha agree there is something very special about supporting Catholic education. In giving to education, you are providing for and shaping the future.

“We are now engaged in watching the little pre-k students grow over the years to become high school graduates who are: Open to Growth, Intellectually Competent, Religious, Loving and Committed to Doing Justice,” said Bill.

Contact the Foundation Office (907) 456-7970 for the Pikes’ contact information.

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