Unique and Exceptional

Karen Hammond Names RISD as a Beneficiary of Her Donor-Advised Fund

Karen Hammond, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and the Museum Board of Governors, thinks RISD is special. 

It all started with visits to the museum—quick solo ones and longer, more educational trips with her children. Before long, Hammond felt like a member of the RISD community and became impressed with the college and its ability to create a culture of curiosity, creativity and joy for its students. 

In order to facilitate her giving to RISD, Hammond and her husband created a donor-advised fund, which she recommends to anyone looking to streamline their philanthropy. This type of fund allows donors to contribute cash, securities or other assets for an immediate cash deduction. While in the fund, the assets can grow and donors are able to recommend a donation at any time. “It’s exceedingly simple,” she says. “A few clicks and it’s done.” 

Hammond has named RISD a beneficiary of her donor-advised fund, something that she considers a no-brainer. “I can say where I want my money to go, or I can leave it to somebody else to decide for me,” she says. “I can’t figure out why I would let somebody else decide!”

She has a message for her fellow RISD supporters: “Planned giving is so easy. I encourage anyone who loves RISD to consider it. A donor-advised fund is just one way to make a planned gift, and what’s best for me might not be best for others. But you can meet with the planned giving team and see what options are available. If RISD is important to you, why not make it part of your legacy?”