A Nevada Legacy - George and Dorothy Gillemot
Driving the herd or jetting cross country, it is nearly impossible to keep up with the Gillemots. In retirement, George Gillemot ’00 (Honorary Doctor of Human Letters) is businessman turned cattle rancher on a sprawling 650-acre property in Franktown, Nevada in the heart of Washoe Valley. Married 61 years, George and his wife Dorothy have raised a family, achieved tremendous success in a variety of business ventures, and traveled extensively.
George and Dorothy’s remarkable acts of generosity to and vision for their adopted state and community are matched in magnitude only by the big Nevada sky that envelops the Sunset Ranch they call home. Several years ago the couple made the decision to set aside an inspiring $10 million donation, as part of their charitable trust, to the University of Nevada, Reno Foundation to benefit the arts on campus. The gift, inspired by Dorothy’s love of music and dance, is among the largest donations to the University.
President Milton Glick praised their commitment: “From its earliest days, the University’s history is filled with generous benefactors who came to Nevada and made it their home. From John W. Mackay, pioneer miner on the Comstock Lode, to the Gillemots, the University would not thrive without the foresight of these remarkable individuals. I am humbled by the Gillemot’s commitment to our future. When this gift is realized, it will have a lasting impact on the University’s will have a lasting impact on the University’s arts programs, and will elevate the already impressive caliber of the arts in our region.”
For more information about planned giving opportunities at the University, contact Bob Eggleston or Lisa Riley, J.D. at (775) 784-1352 or beggleston@unr.edu or lriley@unr.edu.
George and Dorothy Gillemot are charter members of the Nevada Legacy Society. To find out more about how to become a member, click here.