Universities in the United States are often the beneficiaries of charitable bequests that are left to them in the wills of former students, but sometimes the source and size of these gifts can be surprising.

The University of New Hampshire recently received a generous and unexpected bequest from a former student and employee.

Robert Morin worked as a cataloguer in Dimond Library at the university for nearly 50 years. He was known to live simply, but unbeknown to many he actually amassed a substantial amount of money over his lifetime. When he passed away he left an estate worth around $4 million, which he gifted to the university in his will.

“Bob’s demonstrated commitment to UNH through his philanthropy is tremendously inspiring,” said UNH President Mark Huddleston. “His generous gift allows us to address a number of university priorities. As an alumnus Bob would be pleased to know that a majority of his estate, $2.5 million, will help to launch an expanded and centrally located career center for our students and alumni. We are committed to providing the resources needed to ensure every student achieves professional success and Bob’s gift will play a major role in that effort.”

The university was able to use the majority of the bequest as it saw fit. However, Mr Morin’s will specified that $100,000 of his estate be dedicated to the Dimond Library, where it will be used to provide scholarships for work-study students, support staff members who continue their studies in library science, and renovate and upgrade one of the library’s multimedia rooms.

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