Fred Blott ’71 Blends Lifetime and Legacy Gifts to Support Current and Future Students

Fred Blott ’71

Fred Blott ’71 grew up in La Salle-Peru, Illinois, in a family that put a very strong focus on education. “My mother was a high school Latin teacher and really valued education,” he says. “My three siblings all went to the University of Illinois, and I always thought it was too big—so I was looking for a smaller community and was drawn to the broad nature of a liberal arts education.”

After many years of annual giving through IRA required minimum distributions, Fred learned about Our Forester Future, the College’s endowment-focused fundraising campaign, and decided to ensure his future support through a planned gift. “Upon my passing, a significant percentage from my revocable trust will be used to establish an endowed fund for budget support,” he says. “The College has a low endowment compared to many other strong liberal arts colleges. I want to make sure my gift helps to grow that endowment.”

By increasing the endowment, Fred hopes to secure Lake Forest’s future and help the College continue to offer a high-quality, liberal arts education for many generations to come. “My little part won’t do it all, but it will help support the College,” he says. “It also recognizes the value of my education at Lake Forest College.”

After a 32-year career in international affairs—both in the Foreign Agricultural Service and the Office of the Secretary—Fred is now retired and living in Virginia. He encourages others to join him in supporting the College's future.

“You can help establish a legacy by considering a donation to Lake Forest,” he concludes. “All donations help. They don’t have to be substantial—but the more alumni who give what they can, the better. If we all do what we can, it will make a real difference to the College.”