A planned gift and bequest recognition society for Middlebury
The Cane Society recognizes alumni, spouses, parents, and friends who have established planned gift arrangements with Middlebury or included the college in their estate plans. All are welcome to join. Please contact the Office of Gift Planning if you would like information or assistance as you prepare your own estate plans.
Membership in The Cane Society is purely honorary, carries no obligations and is open to all friends who have demonstrated their commitment to Middlebury’s future by establishing life income gifts (charitable remainder trusts, or gift annuities), or by including the College in their wills, trusts, or as beneficiary of a life insurance policy, retirement plan, or donor advised fund. No gift minimum is required. All are welcome!
How do I become a member of the Cane Society?
If Middlebury is included as a beneficiary of your estate and you would like to be welcomed to The Cane Society, or if you are already a member and would like to share the details of your future intention, please complete this Membership Form or contact us to share or discuss your future intention or request a Membership Form by mail.
When you join the Cane Society we will welcome you with a Cane Society pin, featuring Gamaliel Painter’s cane, and your name will be added to the invitation list for the annual Cane Society luncheon, hosted by President Laurie L. Patton, during Reunion Weekend. You will also receive special communications and event invitations from time to time.
Best of all, you'll receive the satisfaction of knowing you are helping to advance the creation of a transformative learning experience for students as they prepare to practice ethical citizenship at home and abroad.
The Naming of the Cane Society
The Cane Society is named in honor of Gamaliel Painter, a founder of both the town of Middlebury and the College, who left a major bequest to the College when he died in 1819. He also left his cane, a symbol of strength and authority, as a legacy for future generations.
The Story of Middlebury's Cane Tradition from Middlebury on Vimeo.