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Local couple chooses gift annuities to support Liberty’s goals

February 20, 2015
Bill and Kathryn Hanlin

Bill and Kathryn Hanlin

Bill and Kathryn Hanlin have supported Liberty University and its related ministries for many years by attending events on campus and through prayer and financial support.

“It’s the largest Christian university in the world, and I believe in the work they are doing in preparing young people to go out in various professions and carry on the work of Christ,” Hanlin said. “That’s what it’s all about.”

The Hanlins became familiar with the university while listening to its founder, Dr. Jerry Falwell, cast the vision in the early 1970s. They moved from South Florida to Lynchburg, Va., about 20 years ago, and became actively involved in the ministry at nearby Thomas Road Baptist Church, where Falwell was senior pastor. Their daughter, Dr. Kathie Carwile Morgan, has been an associate professor in Liberty’s School of Education since 1993.

As the Hanlins witnessed the “tremendous growth” at Liberty and the original vision being fulfilled, they decided to continue to support the school through charitable gift annuities.

“The conclusion we came to is that it’s the best of both worlds: to promote Christian education and at the same time supplement our income,” Bill Hanlin said. “We couldn’t put our faith — not to mention our finances — in a better place.”

In the past fiscal year, donors have invested nearly $5 million into Liberty’s annuity program. An annuity provides guaranteed income for life — at a high fixed rate of return that is not subject to the changes in the market — and substantial tax breaks. It can be established for a minimum of $5,000; there is no maximum amount.

“We want to feel that we’re a part of Liberty University — that’s the good thing that we get out of it,” Bill Hanlin said. “I couldn’t think of a better way to invest our money. If there were a better way, I would have done it. Our funds are well invested, and we’re providing for the future of students and potential students for years to come.”

  • To receive a personal annuity fact sheet, call (800) 543-5309.

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