Investing. Growing. Giving.
ONE ALUM’S JOURNEY AND VISION FOR FUTURE LEADERS
By Robert (Bob) Cornwall
MDiv ’85, PhD in Historical Theology ’91, Grace and Charles Fuller Legacy Circle Member
When I enrolled at Fuller Seminary in the 1980s, I envisioned a future in academia. I didn’t anticipate how my studies would lay the foundation for a ministry that would unite scholarship, pastoral leadership, and a passion for Christian unity.
Originally on a pre-PhD track, I shifted to the Master of Divinity program as my sense of calling deepened. After ordination in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), my journey led from academia to the pulpit, weaving together the roles of pastor, teacher, and writer.
Now retired after two decades in parish ministry and academia, I remain deeply engaged in serving the church. I currently chair the Christian Unity and Interfaith Ministry board and co-chair the Disciples-ELCA bilateral dialogue.
Although I initially pursued a PhD in church history under Jim Bradley’s mentorship with no plans for pastoral ministry, Fuller’s transformative, multidenominational community shaped my commitment to fostering unity across denominations and faiths. The theological foundation I gained enriched my preaching, teaching, and writing in ways I never expected.
My wife, Cheryl, and I have included Fuller Seminary in our estate planning, focusing on the Center for Advanced Theological Studies (CATS). We hope to ease financial burdens for future students, enabling them to serve with greater freedom.
To explore how you can support Fuller Seminary or another cause close to your heart, connect with The Fuller Foundation at giftplanning@thefullerfoundation.org Together, we can equip future leaders to serve the church and the world.
Robert Cornwall
The Fuller Foundation | Spring 2025
Giving Made Easy
Learn more about the benefits of creating a DAF. Scan the QR code below or return the enclosed reply card today to get your free copy of One-Stop Giving: TFF Donor-Advised Fund.
SIMPLIFY YOUR GIVING, MAXIMIZE YOUR IMPACT
Did you know a TFF Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) can help you maximize your charitable giving and save on taxes?
A DAF is like a charitable investment account that you use to support the causes you care about. You contribute to your DAF and receive an immediate tax deduction. The funds are invested and grow in your account until you are ready to recommend grants to the charities of your choice.
Why Choose a DAF?
• Immediate Tax Benefits. Contribute cash, stocks, or other investments to your DAF now and receive an immediate federal tax deduction.
• Flexible Giving. Recommend grants to the charities you love on your own schedule.
• Tax-Free Growth. Invest your contributions, allowing your fund to grow and make a bigger impact over time.
• Simplicity. Support a variety of charities without having to retain records for separate contributions.
• Family Philanthropy. Build a legacy of giving by involving children in making decisions about grant recommendations.
Ready to align your DAF with your charitable goals AND your faith? Scan the QR code today to create a DAF with The Fuller Foundation online in just five minutes.
NEXT GENERATION MFTS MEET CRITICAL NEED
By Kent Komae Former Board Member, Asian American Christian Counseling Service
Among Asian Americans and Asian American Christians, finding a therapist who understands their unique cultural challenges and mental health struggles is paramount.
Filling that void is the impetus behind the Ryo and Jean Komae Scholarship, created to support Fuller Seminary Marriage and Family Therapy students who want to serve the Asian American community.
My parents, Ryo and Jean, were dedicated Christians with strong beliefs in family, education, and health and wellness.
The genesis of this scholarship came from one of my friends, who started a scholarship for Hispanic engineers in his mother’s name. He told me that when his mother met with the winners, it was a highlight for her.
Since I was on the board of Asian American Christian Counseling Service, I suggested to my parents that we start a scholarship in their names.
My father asked, “You mean we can start a scholarship in our names while we’re still alive?” I laughed and said, “Sure, and you can meet the winners!”
Over the years, 29 scholarships have been awarded, and when my parents met the winners each year, they and the recipients were greatly blessed.
When Asian American Christian Counseling Service closed its doors, The Fuller Foundation stepped up to oversee this scholarship.
My family is grateful for the work The Fuller Foundation has done to continue this scholarship, equipping Fuller Marriage and Family Therapy students to meet the critical need for mental health services in the Asian American community.
Our hope is that you, too, will consider supporting Fuller—to help students and ensure they receive the Christian training they need to bring hope and healing to our world.
Unlock life-changing opportunities: Request our scholarships brochure by filling out the enclosed card today!
Ryo and Jean Komae
HONORING YOUR LEGACY OF FAITH
This spring, we’re reflecting on the legacy of faithful men and women who have served God’s kingdom—preachers proclaiming the Gospel, teachers inspiring new generations, mental health therapists bringing hope and healing, social service workers supporting the homeless and needy, and parents nurturing faith and love in their children.
Because of the faithfulness of someone in your life, you are a person of God who can contribute to a world transformed through the hope of Christ. In that spirit, we encourage you to create your will to honor the legacy of faith you’ve inherited. Planning for the future is an important part of stewarding the blessings God has entrusted to your care.
A will isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s a piece of you. It can turn your love into your legacy. By creating your will, you can protect the people you love, design a plan for your assets, support the charities that are meaningful to you, and gain peace of mind.
When you spend time documenting how you want to distribute your possessions, they become something much bigger: a legacy of love and care that reflects your values.
We’ve partnered with FreeWill because their secure online resource can help you craft your will within 20 minutes for free. Visit FreeWill.com/TheFullerFoundation or scan the QR Code above to begin.
If you desire to see the next generations of Christian leaders and therapists soundly equipped to effectively address the complexities of ministry and the challenges of our world (theological drift, globalization, mental health, and beyond), we ask you to prayerfully consider including a gift to Fuller Seminary or The Fuller Foundation in your will.
Your faithful generosity will equip future leaders to share Christ’s hope and healing in the church and the world. Your impact will last far beyond the present and help transform lives and communities around the globe with the love of Christ.
LET US HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR FINANCIAL AND CHARITABLE GOALS
At The Fuller Foundation, we partner with individuals and families to turn financial resources into meaningful impact. For nearly 40 years, we’ve provided trusted guidance to help align values with financial goals, offering personalized services that create a legacy of lasting change.
Whether you’re planning for your family’s future, supporting causes close to your heart, or both, we’re here to simplify the journey and enhance the joy of making a difference—every step of the way.
Let us help you with the following services:
• Investment Management: Grow your assets with expert advice and strategies from a trusted advisor who shares your faith and values, helping you achieve financial security for yourself and your family.
• Gift & Estate Planning: Preserve your legacy while caring for your loved ones. Our team collaborates with your advisors to uncover opportunities that align with your financial and charitable goals.
• TFF Donor-Advised Fund (DAF): Streamline your giving while enjoying tax benefits and flexibility in supporting the charities you care about.
• Trust Administration: Explore establishing a charitable trust to achieve your financial goals and provide for your family and favorite charities.
• Endowment Fund: Craft a permanent legacy by creating a fund that provides ongoing support to your chosen causes.
At The Fuller Foundation, we combine financial expertise with a faith-centered approach, empowering you to provide for your loved ones and make a lasting impact for Christ.
Have questions? Book a free consultation today by scanning the QR code or contacting us at 626.765.8431 or info@thefullerfoundation.org.
ESTATE PLANNING MISTAKES AND HOW TO AVOID THEM
Creating an estate plan is vital to protect your loved ones and legacy, but common errors can cause stress and confusion later. Here’s how to prevent some frequent mistakes:
1. Failing to Plan: The biggest mistake you can make is simply not setting aside the time to make your estate plan, risking the future of your assets and most importantly, your loved ones. Take the time; start today.
2. Lack of Communication: Discuss your plan with family and key individuals like your executor or trustee to prevent confusion and ensure your wishes are honored.
3. Skipping Power of Attorney Designations: Assign financial and healthcare powers of attorney to trusted individuals to ensure decisions are made in your best interest.
4. Failing to Fund Your Trust: A trust can be an excellent part of your plan, but only if you complete the process by properly funding it. Understand exactly what you need to do to fund your trust and follow all the steps, including titling assets correctly.
5. Forgetting About Charities That Are Important to You: Many people want to make a lasting impact on the causes they care about. Consider leaving a legacy by including a future gift to charity in your estate plan or naming the charity as the beneficiary of an asset.
To discover additional estate planning mistakes and how you can avoid them, scan the QR code.
Looking to Take Charge of Your Financial Future? Get personalized guidance for your investment portfolio and overall financial strategy. Secure your future today at www.fullerinvesting.com.