Watch Video Featuring Lucille and Russ

Lucile Johnson ’52 and her husband, Russ, are passing on their commitment to philanthropy.

With wide eyes and a bright smile, Lucile Sargent Johnson ‘52 shared a scrapbook her family made in honor of her being named Grand Marshall of the 2002 Simpson College commencement ceremony. On the last page, in bold red letters, was a message, “Way to go, Grandma!”

Way to go, Grandma, indeed. Lucile Johnson has given her children and grandchildren the ultimate gift—a lifelong example of service and philanthropy. A powerful legacy of doing and giving, wherever and whenever possible.

Lucile and her husband, Russ, have established an impressive tradition of giving to Simpson. One that dates back more than 46 years. They are longtime members of the Presidents’ Society, and have made significant gifts to the Kent Campus Center construction as well as the college’s endowment. The latter funds an annual scholarship, alleviating some of the financial burden for students with significant need.

Hear Them Say It

Watch this video featuring Lucille and Russ, as they explain their reasons for giving.

Their giving philosophy is deeply rooted in their upbringing. Both Lucile and Russ watched their parents give generously, setting an example early. The Johnsons understood giving as the right thing to do.

“When we reached a point financially where we could give, those early lessons had an influence,” says Lucile. “We want to touch as many lives as we can.”

Lucile’s siblings all attended Iowa State University. But Lucile, inspired by her father's service on the college’s board of trustees, chose Simpson. Her intention was to simply, “try it out,” for a couple of years. She liked it so much, she stayed. Lucile credits that decision to a deep sense of connection with faculty, her Tri Delta sisters and the campus overall.

“When you walked Simpson’s sidewalks, there were no strangers,” says Lucile. “It is just such a truly special place. I loved my time there.”

That feeling—that sense of home—is what led the Johnsons to ensure their legacy of giving outlives them. The couple joined the Matthew Simpson Society, making a generous financial commitment to Simpson College in their will. Now, the connection to Simpson College that Lucile thought would last just a couple of years will instead last forever.

You can join the Johnsons in establishing a legacy at Simpson. To learn ways you can include the college in your estate plan, please contact Chris Goodale '86 at chris.goodale@simpson.edu or 515-770-1426.