Legacy of Quiet Strength: Honoring Beth Conner’s Landmark Gift to United Way
A Lasting Legacy: Honoring Beth Conner’s Remarkable Gift to Our Community
At United Way of Cass-Clay, we’re constantly moved by the incredible generosity of people who believe in making our community better for everyone. And sometimes, one person’s quiet generosity can ripple out in ways that touch countless lives. One of those incredible people was Elizabeth (Beth) Conner.
Beth passed away in May 2023, but she left behind more than memories – she left a legacy. Through a Landmark Gift of more than $200,000, Beth made a final, extraordinary impact on a community she quietly championed throughout her life.
A Life of Compassion and Service
Beth was known by those closest to her as someone with a gentle spirit and a strong heart. She dedicated her career to supporting students and creating welcoming environments in higher education. She held leadership roles at Southwest University and Minnesota State University Moorhead, and was honored with the 1993 SMSU Honorary Lifetime Membership Award—a reflection of the deep respect she earned from colleagues and students alike.
Beyond her professional life, Beth was a loving caregiver to her mother, a lifelong book lover, and a woman who lived with intention and kindness. She dedicated her life to serving others, particularly students, children, and those less fortunate, as well as her beloved cats.
Her longtime friend Karen Lester said it best:
“Beth’s demeanor was gentle, but her heart was undeniably strong.”
A Gift That Will Keep Giving
In late 2024, United Way received Beth’s Landmark Gift through her estate. This generous contribution will have a meaningful and lasting impact on our community.
Half of Beth’s gift will go toward our endowment, helping ensure support for future generations. The other half will go directly into our current work—lifting families out of poverty and creating a better community for all of us through our Bold Goals.
As our President & CEO, Karla Isley, shared:
“We are incredibly grateful for Beth’s thoughtfulness and extraordinary generosity. Her gift will make a significant impact in our work—now and into the future.”
The Power of Planned Giving
Beth’s story is a powerful reminder that we all have the ability to leave a legacy. Whether through getting involved as a volunteer or financial gifts, each act of generosity helps United Way be the voice of people in need.
If you’ve already included United Way of Cass-Clay in your estate planning or are interested in learning more about how you can make a lasting impact, we would love to connect. Planned giving is a personal and meaningful way to align your values with your legacy, and our United Way team would be honored to help guide that process.
To Beth—thank you. Your life, your heart, and your generosity continue to build a community that is stronger, more compassionate, more connected, and more united.
Learn more about you can create a legacy.