Spring 2004

Message from the Dean | Hearst Helps Mentor | Carter Bequest Supports Professorship | Lovelace Gives to Nursing Students | Alumni Create Endowment| Create Income for Today, Leave a Legacy Forever

Mary Jane and Rufus Carter knew a gift becomes more valuable with time, continuous support and patience. Their estate gift supports the Carter-Fleck Professorship in Nursing and the Carter Endowed Scholarship Fund.

In 1961, the Carters established an endowed fund, creating two scholarships each for the School of Engineering and the College of Nursing.

In the spring of 1955, the first sign of success was the College’s appearance as a line item in the UNM budget. College co-founder Marion Fleck described Mary Jane as doing most of the “spade work” and providing magnificent moral support. The Carter-Fleck Endowed Professorship honors these two founders of the College of Nursing.

Raised in Raton, N.M., Rufus received two degrees in civil engineering from UNM. During some 20 years in the Army Corps of Engineers, he and Mary Jane experienced life in many countries, including China, Iran and Panama.

Rufus lived west of the Rio Grande for 25 years prior to retirement. Through engineering know-how, experience and community involvement, he contributed to the growth of Albuquerque’s west side with building and development projects. He died in 2002; Mary Jane, in 1992.

Because of the Carters’ steady donations over 40 years, the endowments now award recipients $2,000 each. “I was short of money all the time when I went to college,” explained Rufus. “I always said that if I ever had enough money, I would give it back.”

The Carters’ dedication to UNM’s engineering and nursing programs continues to have a large impact. Their patience and consistent giving will benefit students and faculty for years to come.