Susan and Mark Dawson have been coming to the Field Museum for more than 30 years—as long as they've lived in Chicago. Mark practically raised their sons in the exhibition halls: pushing a stroller past taxidermy tigers, gleaming gemstones, and fascinating dinosaur fossils.
Conscious of their impact on the environment, Susan and Mark bike nearly everywhere they go and appreciate the Museum's dedication to the environment, including the collections used for climate research, and commitment to green practices, exemplified through the Rice Native Gardens surrounding the building.
Susan and Mark enjoy learning about the Field Museum's work from our scientists. "I love being able to share the Field Museum with my visiting relatives especially. It is one place we insist they go!" Mark shares.
Mark's fascination with botany blossomed after meeting Head of Botanical Collections Dr. Matt von Konrat at a recent event. He had no idea bryophytes (non-vascular plants, such as mosses, liverworts, and hornworts) would be interesting. But, Matt's passion for his research made an impression on Mark.
Susan and Mark believe in giving back to the community through their estate plans, as well as taking care of their family. After years of generous support, Mark named the Field Museum as a beneficiary of his retirement account.
"The Field Museum feels like family. I raised my two sons here. My planned gift is a continuation of my lifetime of support."
Naming the Field Museum as a beneficiary of your retirement plans is easier than you think. All it takes is a form. Contact Bill Lynerd at blynerd@fieldmuseum.org or 312.665.7286 for help getting started.