Guilford College has received a generous $750,000 gift from the estate of Betsy Bingham Klein ’53, a devoted alumna whose love for the College spanned a lifetime. Betsy, a resident of Friends Homes Guilford, passed away in January.

Betsy’s commitment to Guilford was evident to all who knew her, including her nephew Ray Smith. “Did my aunt talk about Guilford College much?” Ray asks. “When did she not talk about Guilford? You could tell the friends, the relationships, and the education she made there meant so much to her.”

Acting President Jean Bordewich is thankful for Betsy’s generosity. “Betsy's gift is another example of grateful Guilfordians giving back to the College," says Jean. "Her generosity will continue to shape the Guilford experience for generations to come."

After graduating from Guilford, Betsy pursued her passion for theater, studying at Boston University before moving to New York. She graced the stage in off-Broadway productions, including the comic opera "Don Pasquale." Her artistic spirit extended beyond the theater, leading her to a successful career in New York’s garment industry. Betsy worked with high-end retailers such as Neiman Marcus and collaborated closely with legendary designer Roy Halston Frowick, known mononymously as Halston.

Her Brooklyn closets were once filled with Halston dresses, though not for long. “She was always giving them to friends or family members,” Ray recalls.

Betsy’s husband, David Klein, was an accomplished artist known for his iconic TWA travel posters, which captured the allure of global destinations. Together, the Kleins traveled extensively, frequently spending summers in Southern France.

After David’s passing in 2005, Betsy, a native of Randolph County, found herself drawn back to her North Carolina roots, eventually settling at Friends Homes, just across the street from Guilford College. There, she relished the opportunity to reconnect with classmates and longtime friends.

Betsy’s generous gift was made through a Charitable Gift Annuity, a giving option that benefits both donors and the College.

“It’s a win-win for both Guilford and our donors,” says Rick Lancaster ’88, Director of Development - Major Gifts. “For the College, a charitable gift annuity offers meaningful support and makes a lasting impact. For our donors, annuities help support the College’s mission, offer potential tax benefits, and provide fixed income for life.”

Want to learn more about how you can support the College through a Charitable Gift Annuity? Email Rick or call him at 336-316-2619.