Salve Legacy Society

The generosity of the Salve Regina community creates a lasting impact on the student experience in a multitude of ways. From student scholarships and program support to investments in vital campus infrastructures, the philanthropic spirit is closely connected to the enduring vision of the Sisters of Mercy who believed in the power of a mercy-based education.

The Salve Legacy Society recognizes alumni, parents, and friends who share that vision and have demonstrated a commitment to the future success of the University through planned giving. Creating a legacy in honor of a loved one or to pay tribute to your own Salve Regina experience is simple and straightforward and will truly make a difference for generations to come.

Learn more about the ways in which Salve Regina can be included in your estate planning

History

With deep faith and a steadfast belief in the importance of their vision, the founding Sisters of Mercy never wavered along their journey in establishing an institution of higher education in Rhode Island. Following the state charter granted in 1934 to create Salve Regina, the Sisters resolutely continued their preparation and planning—confident that when the time was right, their dream would be realized. Thirteen years later, Robert Goelet gifted Ochre Court, his family’s spectacular Gilded Age “cottage” that sits oceanside along Newport’s famed Cliff Walk, to the Salve Regina College corporation. Made in memory of his father Ogden, the gift enabled the founding Sisters to open Ochre Court’s majestic gates in welcome to the first 58 students on September 24, 1947—Mercy Day—as the Class of 1951.

Today the iconic Ochre Court houses the Office of Admissions and other administrative offices, continuing its tradition of welcoming prospective students and families. As the first gift to Salve Regina, the historic property represents a heritage of philanthropy embraced by generations of alumni, faculty, staff, and friends who have so generously contributed to the University’s success.

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