The EHC recognizes those who create a life income gift, make Harvard Medical School a beneficiary of a retirement account or existing donor-advised fund, or include HMS in their will or trust. Members are invited to special events and programs nationwide.
Toby Gerhart, MD ’75, has spent years reflecting on the responsibility and privilege of supporting future generations of Harvard‑trained physicians. As he considered how best to give back, he was struck by how many classmates, as seen in past Reunion Reports, pursued meaningful careers in research, teaching, and patient care—often despite early financial sacrifice. He believes today’s students deserve the same freedom to follow their passions without overwhelming debt.
“We as alumni can help,” Gerhart said. He appreciates his class’s decision to focus their 50th Reunion efforts on strengthening the Class of 1975 Scholarship Fund.
While reviewing his estate plans with his wife and attorney, Gerhart realized that a legacy estate gift aligned perfectly with his circumstances. A bequest allows him to retain control of his assets throughout his lifetime while ensuring meaningful future support for HMS. And importantly, because he has reached his 50th Reunion, his bequest intention also counts toward his class’s Reunion gift.
“If we each do what we can, together we can open doors for the next generation,” Gerhart says.
For more information about how to join the EHC through a planned giving arrangement, please contact our gift planning team at 800-922-1782 or email giftplanning@hms.harvard.edu.