A Gift Planning Pioneer

Captain Hamm had a remarkable life. Orphaned as a teen, by the time he reached his mid-20s he'd served in the National Guard, plied the East Coast by steamship, worked the docks in New York and investigated smuggling cases as part of a detective squad.

Despite all his early accomplishments, what Captain Hamm really wanted was a college education. In 1916 he wrote an impassioned letter to UF President Murphree to plead his case for acceptance to UF, and succeeded. World War I intervened, however, and he left for France, leaving a new wife behind. Capt. Hamm's fearless leadership of the men he commanded cost him his life at just 26.

Captain Hamm designated UF as a beneficiary of his life insurance in 1918; it was one of the fledgling university's first planned gifts. Captain Hamm sought to recognize the opportunities UF had given him, and little did he know that his legacy would live on to this day because of his bequest to the Gator Nation.

How Can You Continue Captain Hamm's Tradition?

Throughout UF's history alumni and friends from all eras have shared a common bond: a belief in UF and the transformative power of philanthropy.

Bequests and other planned gifts play an important role in UF's efforts to unlock the mysteries of science, open the doors of education and knowledge to our youth and contribute to humanity's wellbeing. Donors from all walks of life - not just the wealthy - have used these methods to make a real difference in people's lives.

Are You Ready to Establish Your Legacy at the University of Florida?

We invite you to read our Gift Planning Guide and learn more about the various ways you can contribute to UF through a planned gift that is meaningful to you.

Your school. Your Legacy. Gators Forever.