As a retired elementary school teacher, Helen A. Mendel ’64, MS ’69 understands the importance of education. That’s why, on the occasion of her 50-year reunion and induction into the Golden Shield Society this spring, Mendel made plans to bequeath more than $810,600 to benefit Barry University. Her planned gifts to the university now total more than $1 million, including a gift made a few years ago.
Originally from East Orange, New Jersey, Mendel worked her way through Barry College for Women. Mendel earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in reading. She taught in the Dade County Public School system for more than 30 years, serving most of those years at Comstock Elementary School.
Mendel cherishes her time at Barry and credits much of her success in life to Barry’s way of integrating study, reflection, and service to the community. “The life I lead today would not have been possible without the strong foundation and training that I received at Barry College,” Mendel said.
Her love for Barry has only deepened over the years, and today, as a Shepard Broad Society member, she participates in a variety of campus activities and lifelong learning lectures. She is passionate about Barry.
In recognition of her generosity, Mendel was honored by Barry at the community-wide annual Leave a Legacy 2014 Donor Next Door Luncheon on Thursday, May 15.
“Barry University is deeply indebted to Helen Mendel for her unrestricted gift,” said President Sister Linda Bevilacqua, OP, PhD. “Through this gift, Helen has strengthened Barry’s ability to expand the educational endeavors to benefit future students. We are grateful to Helen Mendel for her belief in Barry and her generosity.”