Blackburn Society Member Profile: Bill Bower
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Bill and his wife, Bambi Dudley
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In 1972 Bill Bower began working as a fourth-grade teacher at Friends’ Central and impacted the lives of students, parents, and fellow faculty members for 40 years. Bill continues his legacy as a donor and member of the Blackburn Society.
What do you love about Friends’ Central?
“The associations that I was fortunate enough to make in 40 years are the greatest gifts that anyone could have ever given me. If I had a job in the world of finance—if I had made millions of dollars—it wouldn’t measure up to my experiences at Friends’ Central.
“Friends’ Central is a place full of quality people. When I think about my life, I realize I am very lucky that I was around great people constantly. Even as the characters changed and the decades went by, no matter what, there were always wonderful students, parents, teachers, and administrators.”
Favorite FCS memory
“Out of many wonderful memories, rehearsing and performing the faculty musicals, including Guys and Dolls, Oh What a Lovely War, The Desert Song, and Once Upon a Mattress.”
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In 1987 Bill’s fourth-grade students (Class of 1995) posed in front of a model Spirit of St. Louis they built in their classroom.
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Why do you give to FCS?
“The experiences I had at Friends’ Central were priceless. They formed me as a person, reinforced my values, and gave me a wealth of self-esteem. I give to a number of organizations, but Friends’ Central has always been a constant for me. Finally, after I retired and assessed my finances, I was able to fully understand that I could make a greater commitment to the School by leaving money to the School after I’m gone. I feel completely honored to have a chance to do that.”
What would you say to encourage others to give to FCS?
“Friends’ Central is a place that truly lives up to its creed. It works with everyone, honors your background, and is very sensitive to the needs of students, parents, and faculty. I can’t think of any other organizations that would be more worthy of a donation than Friends’ Central.”
Gifts to the Blackburn Society follow in the spirit of Eliza E. Blackburn ’22, the beloved faculty member who left her estate in the care of the Board of Trustees and enabled the purchase of the Lower School Campus in 1990. The Blackburn Society recognizes friends who have made the thoughtful decision of including FCS in their estate plans.
If you are interested in learning more about the Blackburn Society and leaving a legacy at FCS, contact us today.