Ray & Judy Ricker

“We’re boomers. We think we’ll be around forever—but finalizing our estate gifts felt good,” said Judy Ricker ’76E (BM), ’81E (MM), ’91S (MBA). “Her husband, Ray ’73E (DMA), agrees. “It’s a win-win for us and the University,” he said. “We can provide for ourselves in retirement, our daughter, and the school we both love.”

The Rickers’ charitable remainder unitrust provides income for their family before creating three named funds at the Eastman School of Music—two professorships and one scholarship—that will be around forever. This is Ray and Judy’s way of honoring Eastman’s celebrated history and demonstrating their confidence in the School’s future.

Judy’s message to other boomers? “Get on this bus! Join us and ensure the future of what you love most about the University.”

Ray is professor emeritus of saxophone, and interim director, Institute for Music Leadership.