The steps of Wheeler Hall

Wheeler Legacy Society

Your legacy gift makes the Berkeley dream possible.

Gift planning donors provide essential philanthropic support to Berkeley, helping Cal remain one of the world’s great universities. The Benjamin Ide Wheeler Legacy Society (or Wheeler Legacy Society) was established in 1987 to recognize and honor these visionary individuals.

The society is named for Benjamin Ide Wheeler, president of the university from 1899 to 1919. Not only did President Wheeler transform Berkeley from a small public university to one of the most distinguished centers of learning in the world, he also arranged the first life income gift to the University of California — a charitable trust from Jane Sather. Read Wheeler Legacy Society donor stories.

Membership Benefits

Anyone who includes an eligible gift to Berkeley in their estate plan and/or establishes a Life Income Gift with us is welcomed into the Wheeler Legacy Society. It is our way of recognizing the remarkable generosity of Berkeley’s most committed and loyal supporters. Benefits include:

  • Welcome video from the chancellor, thanking you for your generous planned gift
  • Welcome package and society pin from the Office of Gift Planning’s executive director
  • Annual event: a recognition event on campus 
  • Updates from the Office of Gift Planning’s executive director
  • Happy Birthday wishes and a surprise gift for those turning 95, 100, and 100+
  • Annual Philanthropy Report

Stay Connected

Are you a Wheeler member and need help? Please contact Courtney Klein by emailing or calling 510.643.6200.

Thank you for all that you do and your interest in supporting Berkeley via a planned gift. Go Wheelers, and Go Bears!

Do You Have Questions?

Join the Wheeler Legacy Society

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Events

  • Two women standing with Oski, the UC Berkeley mascot.

    Wheeler Society Luncheon

    July 29, 2025 | MLK Jr. Student Union, Pauley Ballroom

    On July 29, our 38th annual event featured a lecture by john a. powell, director of the Othering & Belonging Institute, Robert D. Haas Chancellor’s Chair in Equity & Inclusion, and professor of Law, African-American Studies, and Ethnic Studies; and remarks from Chancellor Rich Lyons.

    LINK TO GALLERY

    LINK TO RECORDING