Making Room at the Table

Preston Lee (MPA ’85) has always put a focus on increasing diversity and inclusivity in the field of public policy.

“When people see me walk into a room, they know what I’m going to be talking about,” he laughs. Now he’s using his estate plan to ensure his priorities leave a legacy. Through Texas Exes, he has created The Preston V. Lee, Jr. Endowed Public Service & Civics Opportunity Scholarship specifically for Black and African American students at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin, giving them greater opportunities to make their voices heard.

Throughout Preston’s career, which included serving in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development during former President Bill Clinton’s administration and as policy advisor for Vice President Al Gore’s National Partnership for Reinventing Government, he noticed an imbalance in spaces where important public policies were being developed.

“As I looked around those rooms, I didn’t see very many folks of color,” he says. “The best policy is that which represents multiple interests and points of view from the beginning.”

Preston, who credits the LBJ School with developing his skills as an organizer and policy analyst, hopes his fund will help attract strong candidates of color to the school.

“We've got to be able to compete for talented students, and that takes money. You’ve got to be able to say, ‘Here’s what we have to offer you,’” says Preston. “You don’t have to be a gazillionaire to make a bequest. I’m hoping my gift will encourage others who are similarly situated to step up and help out as well.”

It Starts With You

Whether you’re looking for flexibility in your philanthropy, easy ways to give or tax-savvy opportunities, we have gift ideas for you. Simply download our FREE guide, “7 Smart Philanthropic Strategies,” to learn more. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Gift and Estate Planning Team at 512-475-9632 or giftplan@austin.utexas.edu for no-obligation help.