Estate and Gift Planning
Our History
The Tradition of St. Francis Borgia Regional High School dates back to 1901 when twenty three students enrolled to continue their education beyond the eighth grade. In 1910 a two year Commercial School was organized and in 1934 a four year parish high school became a reality because of the dreams and dedication of the parishioners, the Sisters of Notre Dame and the pastors. Fr. George Hildner, pastor of St. John the Baptist, was asked to speak at the dedication. The school was so successful, the need for an addition to the school became evident. Again it was hard work and faith in the school’s mission that made the high school at Second St. and Cedar St. possible. In 1952, Fr. George Hildner, now a Monsignor, served as the master of ceremonies at this second dedication. Monsignor Hildner believed in the importance of a Catholic secondary school education. He believed the best way to pass on the Catholic faith to young people was through a Catholic school education.
Fast forward to 1982 and there was a third dedication, that of a new high school St. Francis Borgia Regional High School. Cooperation and commitment from the total Catholic community of the Washington Deanery made this dream happen. Nineteen parishes, the Sisters of Notre Dame and the Archdiocese of St. Louis came together to continue the school's mission of educating students in a Catholic environment.
Throughout its history SFBRHS has benefited from the foresight and generosity of individuals.
Estate and Gift Planning– The Monsignor Hildner Society
Although Borgia certainly welcomes outright gifts, there are other avenues for supporting the school through Estate and gift planning. Planned gifts may be made during the donor’s lifetime or through a will or trust bequest. Donors can give cash, stock, life insurance and even IRA’s. All donors who remember the school in this way are invited to become members of the Monsignor Hildner Society. The Hildner society was established in the year 2000 to honor and recognize the commitment and contributions of those who have included Borgia in their estate plan, as a beneficiary of an insurance policy, an IRA or a charitable gift annuity or trust.
The Hildner Society is comprised of alumni, past parents, grandparents and friends who have notified us that they have made a gift. The size of the gift is not important.
The good news is if you decide to become a member very little of your time is required. Unless you prefer to remain anonymous we recognize our members by engraving their names on a plaque in the school lobby, include their names in our annual report and in the Knightline newsletter and invite you to attend an annual appreciation dinner.
Borgia established its Planned Giving Program and the Monsignor Hildner Society as a way to say Thank You!
If you would like more information about our planned giving program or even speak confidentially to someone about your ideas for remembering Borgia, please contact the Advancement Office at 636-239-7871 ext. 123