at BCF's Annual Meeting in 1998.
Marilyn Schanze believed in possibilities. Whether championing education, supporting the arts or strengthening her community, she saw opportunities to make a difference and inspired others to do the same.
Marilyn passed away in September, but the generosity, optimism and vision she shared with her husband, Richard, continue to shape Berrien County.
Nearly 30 years ago, Marilyn and Richard made a gift that would leave a lasting mark on Berrien County, establishing a $2 million irrevocable charitable trust to support Berrien Community Foundation. And in true Marilyn fashion, they didn’t just announce it. They surprised everyone.
The Schanzes had planned to make the gift anonymously and went back and forth on the decision until just hours before the annual meeting. They changed their minds after hearing a radio discussion about the power of charitable giving and how public gifts can inspire others to give.
The surprise announcement filled the room with excitement, and the Schanzes’ hope was simple: inspire others to invest in the community they loved.
Many donors came to BCF after hearing about the Schanzes’ gift. As respected business leaders, Richard and Marilyn were trusted throughout the community, and their confidence in the Foundation gave others confidence, too.
Marilyn helped shape BCF during a pivotal time. She joined the board of directors in 1992 and became the Foundation’s first female board chair in 1997.
Her passion for education helped launch BCF’s Education Endowment and inspired a teacher recognition program that evolved into today’s Golden Acorn Classroom Mini Grants.
“Marilyn believed in investing in people and opportunities,” said BCF President Lisa Cripps-Downey. “From supporting teachers and the arts to inspiring others to give, she helped make this community stronger.”
All Rights Reserved.