Paul '74 and Kathleen Matecki have both been lucky enough to live the SLUH experience having met on a blind date when they were juniors. Now, over 40 years later they want to insure others have the same wonderful opportunities they had. "When we were fortunate enough to begin giving, the decision was easy. The values instilled in us at SLUH were and still are the driving force in our lives."
They both have fond memories of attending SLUH events together and talking with their favorite teachers about their dreams. Kathleen was on the SLUH campus so often that she even has her own favorite SLUH teacher: Mr. Dick Keefe. Paul remembers his football coaches, Paul Martel, Ebbie Dunn and Paul Owens and the values they instilled. "They taught us dedication and teamwork. None of us were superstars, but as a team we were outstanding."
Jesuit education has been an important part of their lives and has had a definite impact on their careers. Kathleen graduated from St. Louis University with degrees in social work and felt the importance of the motto, " Men for Others." Paul knows that the rigors of a SLUH education prepared him for Grinnell College and St. Louis University Law School.
Paul is General Counsel for Raymond James Financial, a financial services firm. Paul notes, "Estate planning is a critical element in managing your financial affairs in this complex and constantly changing world. Having seen the lifelong impact that even a small donation can have on a student made the decision to direct some of our estate to SLUH a no-brainer." Kathleen recalls making the decision to create an estate plan that included SLUH when they were 40 years old. Clearly the Mateckis have a long history of generous support for the boys at SLUH.
A perfect example is the tradition they started many years ago of paying for a student to attend prom. "The thank you letters we receive are wonderful and so heartfelt. The boys always express the importance of the Jesuit teachings and their call to God. Even more rewarding is that some of the young men we helped are following our tradition."
By including a planned gift to St. Louis University High School in your estate, you can further the Jesuit education of young men and make an impact that will last a lifetime. Contact Melissa Jones, CFRE at mjones@sluh.org or 314-269-2186 to learn more about including SLUH in your will or other ways to give.