Personal Connections, Cementing Legacy Inspire Obenshains’ Charitable Gift Annuity

Little did Chairman Emeritus Bill Obenshain and his wife Penny know when they embarked on a Caribbean cruise years ago that their philanthropic passion would be steered toward Newport and the Naval War College Foundation (NWCF). Having served five years in the U.S. Navy, Bill instantly ignited an accidental friendship on that vacation with NWCF life member Jim Larkin—who invited him to explore the U.S. Naval War College (USNWC) and get involved.

The Obenshains will tell you that they are “…proud supporters of educational institutions dedicated to providing today’s decision makers and tomorrow’s leaders with elite learning experiences that develop their ability to anticipate and prepare strategically for the future.” In that spirit, after becoming life members and serving in a variety of pivotal volunteer capacities, Bill and Penny established a charitable gift annuity (CGA) to support the work of the NWCF. By establishing a CGA, the Obenshains have provided for themselves a steady stream of income and in the future a generous financial gift to the NWCF.

For Bill and Penny, the CGA is their way of leaving a lasting legacy at the USNWC—a national treasure. Said Bill, “We have enjoyed meeting so many people—faculty, staff, decorated military across all branches, civilian leadership, and Foundation members—who share our enthusiasm for educating and developing future leaders. We made this gift to honor all those who serve and inspire other philanthropic patriots to join us in advancing mission-critical initiatives for the College and protecting our national interests.”