Reed Eliot Society
The Eliot Society is a group of committed supporters who have informed the college of their intention to name Reed as a beneficiary in their will or trust or who have made a planned gift to the college. This tradition of generosity reaches back to Reed's roots—the college itself was established through a bequest from the estates of Simeon and Amanda Reed in 1908.
The Eliot Society is a group named for Thomas Lamb Eliot, who first suggested to Simeon and Amanda Reed that they use their financial resources to found an institution of learning in Portland. Eliot chaired the five-member board of trustees that organized Reed College and set it on course to become the preeminent liberal arts and sciences college it is today.
Over 700 alumni, parents, and friends of Reed are members of the Eliot Society. Members are honored guests at college events and receive periodic information from the college about charitable planning or tax and estate law changes. Reed honors all donor requests for anonymity.
By naming Reed as a beneficiary of your will or trust or by establishing a life income gift, you make a commitment to the college that reflects your aspirations for Reed’s future, just as Simeon and Amanda Reed did when they made plans for the college in their will.
If you have already included Reed in your estate plans, we hope you’ll let us know by completing this form. Informing us of your bequest enables the college to thank you as well as to ensure that your gift will be used exactly as you intend.