Tom Meyer’s Bequest to Help WA Expand Opportunities for Students

According to longtime donor and newly appointed member of the Board of Trustees, Lt. Col. (Ret) Thomas E. Meyer ’85, “The faculty at Worcester Academy gave me opportunities to chart my own course while still having the benefits of the guidance and support of my teachers. I was able to simultaneously follow my passions and prepare for my future.”

After graduating from the Academy, Tom earned his degree in mechanical engineering from Cornell University and spent 23 years of active duty in the Air Force as an aerospace engineer. “In the military, we always said, ‘improve your fighting position.’ That’s what I try to do for Worcester Academy. From increasing course offerings to hiring the best faculty to maintaining facilities—I want to leave WA better than when I found it. As alumni, we can help the school to continuously improve so it can expand on the opportunities for the students.”

Worcester Academy was a real investment for Tom’s parents. He came to the Hilltop in the seventh grade. “It was difficult but my parents made sure we had the best education possible,” Tom says. “I appreciate their sacrifice, and I’d like to make it easier for other families to have the same educational opportunity.”

In addition to his annual contributions, Tom has also arranged a bequest to ensure that his support for WA continues beyond his lifetime. “I enjoy doing the Annual Fund challenges (for 1980s alumni as well as military families) because I’m alive to see the benefits of the gifts,” he says. “However, a bequest in my will allows me to designate how my estate is divided. I can take care of my family as well as organizations I care about.”

Tom hopes others will consider making a legacy gift to support WA’s future. “I encourage everyone to make a will! You worked hard for it. Don’t lose the chance to decide where it all goes after you’re gone,” he concludes. “Then consider your time on the Hilltop. Reflect on all the lessons you learned that you still use today. Find out what you can do to help others.”