Marietta College today announced it has received a bequest for $1,506,465.07 from the estate of Joseph C. and Mary Moore Adams Rieffenberger ’39, which establishes an endowment to support “academic programs for the Legacy Library.”
The gift creates an endowed fund named the “Joseph C. & Mary Moore Adams Rieffenberger Fund.”
“We are deeply moved that the Rieffenberger family was inspired by the power of a Marietta College education that they chose us to be the recipients of this wonderful gift,” said Marietta President William N. Ruud. “This generous donation will have a lasting impact on the efforts of Legacy Library, our faculty and students. This is truly a great day to be a Marietta College Pioneer!”
Nephew David Goldenberg presented checks to Marietta College and the West Virginia Highlands Conservancy, during a ceremony at the President’s House on Monday, July 10th. The Nature Conservancy in Arlington, Virginia, is also a recipient of the bequest. Niece Holly Roach ’71 also attended Monday’s check presentations.
The Legacy Library opened in 2009 and it houses the Worthington Center for Teaching Excellence and serves as a major hub of student activity during the school year.
“We are grateful to Joseph and Mary Moore for their generosity, which keeps alive the distinguished legacy of their family now and into the future,” said Angela Anderson, Vice President for Advancement. “We are so pleased to have Mary Moore’s niece and fellow alumna, Holly Roach, and other members of the family here with us today to celebrate this gift and how it will impact our students, faculty and community members through the creation of this endowment.”
Mary Moore passed away at the age of 93 on Oct. 26, 2012. She was a graduate of Parkersburg High School, Marietta College and Margaret Morrison School of Library Science at Carnegie Tech.
Joseph passed away at the age of 89 on Aug. 27, 2016. He was a World War II veteran, and a two-time graduate of the University of Illinois receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in 1951 and his Master of Science in 1953. He worked for the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources for 46 years.
“Mary Moore and Joe’s thoughtful planning shows the significant impact one can make to ensure their passion and legacy continues on for years to come,” said Jarrett Stull, Director of Gift Planning and Major Gifts. “Remembering Marietta College in your will, trust or estate plan makes it possible for philanthropic individuals to ensure the success of future Pioneers in a way they never thought was possible.”