Edward and Melinda Sadar with Dean Taylor during Dean’s Weekend 2015

Jessica Melton Perry (CLC ’59) loved books and reading. A faculty member in the Western Reserve University School of Library Science from 1961 to 1970, she held numerous positions at the pioneering Center for Documentation and Communication. Mrs. Perry—or “Ben,” as she was affectionately known to friends and family—inspired her daughters and many others to pursue their education, and she cultivated a deep appreciation for the written word.

Wishing to honor her legacy in a lasting and personal way, Melinda Melton Sadar (FSM ’66) and her husband, Edward Sadar (ADL ’64, MED ’68), made a generous contribution of appreciated stock to renovate one of the rooms in the new Writers House on Bellflower Road. Featuring original artwork, carpeting and furnishings selected by the Sadars, “Ben’s Writing Room” was dedicated on April 15, 2016.

“Ben’s Writing Room,” at the Writers House

“It has been important to us to find creative ways to give back to the university that has meant so much to us,” Melinda and Edward say. Making a gift of appreciated stock is one of the easiest and most tax-efficient ways to give.

Writers House is now among many campus buildings that are special to the Sadars. But their favorite place may still be Thwing Hall—where, they say, “a mutual friend formally introduced us over a rousing pinochle game.” Three years later, in 1966, they were married. “That was all it took to begin a 50+ year partnership!” they say with a laugh.

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To discuss a donation of appreciated stock or learn how your philanthropy can have an impact, please contact: Clarke Leslie, associate dean for development and external relations, at 216.368.5322 or clarke.leslie@cwru.edu.