Paul Billings ’83

The message is simple. Inspiration. At least that served as Paul Billings’ motivation when he gifted a $1 million life insurance policy in the name of Jesuit Dallas. A second generation alumnus entrenched in the school’s mission of developing Men for Others, Billings’ enthusiasm for Jesuit and its impact as an educational and spiritual beacon is evident from the get-go.

“Attending Jesuit Dallas was one of the single best experiences of my life,” reflected Billings. “As I look back at that time in my life, I realize how my education at Jesuit helped shape my professional path. The academic rigor fully prepared me for college, but the camaraderie and life-long friendships make up my fondest memories.”

Billings, who joined the Jesuit Dallas Alumni Board immediately after college, also spent six years as a member of the Jesuit Dallas Foundation Board. His career has included a distinguished record of service to the school, but it’s his most recent display of devotion that will ultimately have the greatest impact.

“My drive has been fueled by my love for the school and the people who went here. I wanted to leave a significant gift that would underscore what Jesuit has meant in my life, but I didn’t have millions to give. That’s why planned giving had so much appeal for me. It provided the best opportunity to make a transformative contribution at a relatively low cost.”

In 2005, Paul and his wife started the Paul and Kristy Billings Scholarship Fund. He began the process of making a planned gift without any considerations to estate planning. It was his keen understanding regarding the rising cost of education and his ability to contribute to Jesuit’s future that guided his involvement.

“Beyond everything else, joining the St. Ignatius Society was about providing scholarship opportunities to those in need,” continued Billings. “I want future generations to be able to share that experience. My dad was on work grant when he attended Jesuit, and for the students that are on financial aid, it’s a big deal for me to see them being able to attend.”

“There’s never a perfect time to make a planned gift, but I was glad that I chose to participate in Jesuit’s future so early in my life. My hope is that other alumni will follow the example set by myself and others. Their willingness to invest will have a huge impact, and will enable Jesuit to maintain its position as one of the finest college preparatory schools in the nation.”