Investing in Change: Signe Gates' Strategic Approach to Philanthropy

You Can't Take It With You

Signe Gates is a retired corporate lawyer whose career culminated in a significant role as the Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and Secretary of the Barnes Group, an aerospace and industrial company based in Bristol, Connecticut. Following her retirement, Signe has focused her efforts on philanthropy, particularly in educational institutions, marking her commitment through her notable position on the board of trustees at Susquehanna University. There, she holds the distinction of being the first woman to chair the board in its 166-year history. Signe resides in Northern Virginia, close to her roots in Montgomery County, Maryland.

In this episode…

What inspires a person to leave a career in law behind and embark on a philanthropic journey? What propels someone to shift focus toward making a positive impact?

According to Signe Gates, a retired corporate lawyer and a philanthropic visionary, the journey is rooted in a deep-seated belief in the value of giving back, inspired by early family influences and a strategic approach to generosity. She highlights the importance of strategic giving, choosing initiatives that not only align with her passions but also promise a tangible impact. This approach, Signe explains, allows her to maximize the effectiveness of her contributions, ensuring that each dollar spent is an investment in a cause that matters deeply to her.

In this episode of You Can't Take it With You, host Jim Dunlop sits down with Signe Gates to talk about the transformative power of generosity. They discuss Signe's transition from practicing law to philanthropy, her strategic approach to charitable giving, and the importance of aligning one's philanthropic efforts with personal values for maximum impact.