Keeping Thomas’ Memory Alive

Thomas Coady

Thomas Coady was a UF senior in 2014 — working to become a doctor to address health disparities in the migrant communities where he volunteered — when he died in a traffic accident.

"He was so brilliant," says Thomas' grandmother Carol Ritchie. "He had this thing about him: He could sense when people needed help and would be there to pitch in before they ever asked."

In an effort to honor Thomas' memory and his passion for helping people, his mother, UF education professor Maria Coady, started a scholarship to help pre-med students with similar interests.

His grandmother, Carol, wanted to expand the fund, and did so last year when she sold a house. She used the proceeds to fund a charitable gift annuity, which provides her income for life and an immediate income tax deduction. After her lifetime, UF will add the annuity's funds to the scholarship.

"I would have given the money anyway," Carol says, "but the tax benefits are wonderful, too. I think it's Thomas' way of saying, 'Thanks, Nana.'"

Coady family Christmas 2013

How It Works

With a charitable gift annuity, you make a donation using cash, marketable securities or other assets. In exchange for your gift, UF provides fixed payments for life for you or your beneficiary. The part of your gift that remains supports students and teaching, research and service at UF.

Give the Gift of Education

Learn more about all the ways you can give to UF, by contacting UF's Office of Estate & Gift Planning at giftplanning@uff.ufl.edu, 352-392-5512, toll free at 866-317-4143 or visit our website to get started.