Stubbs’ Bequest Will Help Students Experience the Bonaventure Way

Liz and Walter Stubbs with their rescue dachshund Angel

Walter Stubbs, BA ’87, grew up in New Jersey and had a family friend who lived just 20 minutes from campus in Salamanca, New York. Through her, Walter learned that St. Bonaventure had an excellent communications school. He was also drawn to the university because of its successful Division I program in men’s basketball.

Now semi-retired after enjoying a 33-year career in claims litigation, Walter and his wife of 23 years, Liz, have decided to include a bequest to St. Bonaventure in their estate plan. Though Liz attended Lehigh University and has strong ties to her alma mater, she has also fallen in love with the university as much as Walter. “We want to keep St. Bonaventure growing with campus improvements and academic excellence,” they say. “We both love the people and the school itself.”

As a student, Walter wrote for the school’s yearbook and for the men’s basketball game day program and was also on the men’s intramural committee. He remains involved with the university by visiting campus at least once a year. He also travels to many away men’s basketball games and cherishes the many friendships he gained with people of all ages who also attended St. Bonaventure.

Walter encourages others to join him and consider what kind of legacy gift they could leave to support future Bonnies. “If you loved your college experience, it is a great way to give back and help upcoming students to experience the Bonaventure way,” he concludes.