Gift to Saint Martin's extends couple's legacy of activism to future generations of students

Don Robbins, and his late wife, Carole, have thoughtfully and generously named Saint Martin's University as a beneficiary in a trust that will someday fund a scholarship endowment.

Don epitomizes the definition of legacy at Saint Martin's University. He is the second of four generations in his family to graduate from Saint Martin's, starting with his father and uncle and now including his grandchildren.

Saint Martin's has always had a place in Don’s life. His family’s farm was across the street from campus, and, as a boy, Don watched all the sports teams compete. During high school, Don worked on the Abbey’s farm to help pay for his tuition. He earned his high school diploma and continued on at the college, where he earned his degree in agriculture in 1954. Thirty years later, Don also earned a degree in community service. He has spent countless hours volunteering with the University and community.

In 1954, Don married Carole. They had seven children together. Their first two children are twins who are mentally challenged. Because of their experience raising the twins, Don and Carole became advocates for the handicapped through active roles in several organizations and events that foster programs for the disadvantaged.

The future scholarship that will be funded through the Robbins’ trust will help support students who are interested in professional careers in special education or in medical research to combat the diseases and conditions that cause mental and/or physical handicaps.

Make your values last

Like Don and Carole Robbins, you can provide for Saint Martin's students while making a statement about what matters to you. Contact Nate Peters, MBA at (360) 438-4367 or NPeters@stmartin.edu to learn more.