PETER + MIMI FREEMAN

risd connection: Peter is an honorary trustee and former Chairman of the Board; Mimi is a sustaining docent and Museum Associate at The RISD Museum

professional status: Now retired after a career in investments, Peter continues to volunteer his services at RISD and other Rhode Island institutions, while Mimi, a former school teacher, recently published her first travel guide, As For Ireland (Sakonnet Press, 2001).

type of gift made: In December 2000, the Freemans made their most significant gesture of support yet: a major charitable remainder trust to be shared equally between the college and the Museum. Given for unrestricted purposes, the gift also provides the couple with lifetime income.

rationale: The Freemans acknowledge that they have “been blessed with more of the world's good fortune than many people.” While they appreciate it, Peter points out that “it’s transitory: sharing with others is a way of making good fortune last longer.” Mimi agrees; “We would like our contributions to create lasting opportunities for people, and hope that gifts like the one we've given to RISD will accomplish that,” she says.

process: The Freemans found the process of giving to RISD to be easy and straightforward. “It wasn’t complicated at all,” says Peter. “The staff in the Development office are professional and courteous. They handled it very well.”

why risd? “I’ve been involved with the Museum for a long time, but I feel that the college, with so many young and developing artists, is just as exciting,” says Mimi. “We wanted to help secure the future stability of both parts of the institution. What matters to me most is education and art. The Rhode Island community is very important to us, and the future of Providence really lies in its cultural and educational resources.” In addition to their financial contribution, the Freemans also intend to continue their volunteer commitments at RISD. “My father was very involved in volunteer work,” notes Peter, “so I may have inherited some of my interest from him. I’ve always wanted to help other people and institutions, and I’ve found fun ways to participate. I gained a lot of knowledge about finance and investments through my career, and I’m pleased when certain organizations find that experience valuable.”