Ora Fant '68

Ora Fant

"An Oberlin education is a wonderful foundation."
—Ora Fant '68

As a high school student in the 1960s, Ora Fant was drawn to Oberlin's core values: a sense of inclusiveness and social activism.

Raised in Dayton, Ohio, and now living in suburban Phoenix, Ora credits her liberal arts education for teaching her "how to have a spirited debate without maligning another person's character." This lesson and others, she says, helped her become a successful consultant in organizational design.

"An Oberlin education is a wonderful foundation for a career, whatever that may be." In addition, she holds an MA and PhD from Boston College.

Now retired, Ora can be seen cycling around town—and the world, in locations such as New Zealand and France. She is a docent with the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix and a trustee of Esperanca, a nonprofit that provides life-changing surgeries for patients in developing countries.

Oberlin has remained a priority for Ora. She served on the Board of Trustees for seven years, and when relocating for work, she would find connections in various cities through Oberlin alumni clubs.

"I went back last fall for President Ambar's inauguration and the dedication of the Mary Church Terrell Library—it was a moving experience," she says. "And I had the chance to explore the campus again."

Ora chose Oberlin as the beneficiary of a significant gift from her estate, believing that the college continues to reflect the values that motivated her to enroll and to prepare students for careers in any field. "This is the best way to give back for the blessings I've received," she says.

Estate gifts like Ora Fant's are a beautiful reflection of Oberlin values. All estate donors are recognized as members of Oberlin's Charles Martin Hall Society and receive invitations to special events as well as a small welcome gift. To learn more about making an estate or other planned gift, or to let us know about one you have already made, contact our Office of Leadership and Planned Giving at (440) 775-8599 or gift.planning@oberlin.edu. We look forward to working with you.