In 2008, the SLUH family lost a wonderful supporter with the death of Melvin Giles '38. He was a volunteer, reunion organizer and benefactor to our school. His support of the school continues on, even after his death. Melvin made provisions for SLUH in his estate plans, and the school has received gifts totaling $1 million from his estate. The funds have been placed in the school's endowment fund, and the investment earnings will provide scholarships for deserving SLUH students for generations to come.
Melvin attended SLUH from 1934 until 1938. He was a successful student and graduated with honors. Involved in many activities, he was a standout infielder and leading hitter on the baseball team. He was a captain on the basketball team, and he was a member of the city championship football team. He cherished his time at SLUH and cited his Jesuit education as a keystone of his success in life.
The Great Depression, and the challenges it presented, shaped the time that Giles attended SLUH. Now, more than 70 years later, we are feeling the strains of another era of economic hardship. Thanks to the generosity of Melvin Giles, SLUH is better prepared to meet the challenges of these difficult times. Each year, the income from his endowed scholarship will provide financial support to several SLUH students, keeping the Jesuit education he cherished within reach for more young men.
If you would like information about making an estate gift to SLUH, please visit our planned giving website at here or call Melissa Jones, CFRE at 314-269-2186 or mjones@sluh.org.