Jan Hunter has left a lasting mark on the University of Washington Bothell. A former educator, longtime volunteer and passionate advocate for the community, Hunter died peacefully on March 4 surrounded by her family.
Her most recent gift — a $1.5 million contribution made with her husband, Richard “Dick” Hunter — will help restore the historic Truly House and transform it into a vibrant space for events, student engagement and alumni and community gatherings. The gift continues a legacy of giving that spans more than a decade and reflects the Hunter family’s deep belief in UW Bothell’s mission.
“Jan leaves behind a powerful legacy — one of service, generosity and visionary leadership,” said Rebecca Ehrlichman Blume, vice chancellor for Advancement. “We are incredibly fortunate to have benefited from her guidance and friendship over the years, and will miss her so much.”
The heart of campus
Hunter first became involved with UW Bothell through her uncle, Gordon Green, a Bothell educator who left a multimillion-dollar gift to the University. With Hunter’s encouragement, that gift supported the creation of the Sarah Simonds Green Conservatory, a greenhouse and teaching space that anchors the campus wetland and serves as a hub for environmental research and education.
Inspired by the University’s commitment to students and sustainability, Hunter became a regular presence on campus over the years. She served on the UW Bothell Advisory Board and later played a pivotal role in transitioning the board into the Chancellor’s Philanthropy Leadership Council, which helped reframe the group’s purpose around fundraising and stewardship.
“Jan championed the shift because she understood that fostering a culture of philanthropy would strengthen UW Bothell today and long into the future,” said Ehrlichman Blume. “That vision has already begun to bear fruit.”
Relationships that matter
Hunter was well known for her warmth and her wisdom, and she cultivated deep relationships across the UW Bothell community. She was often seen hosting guests at campus events, including the I Heart UW Bothell luncheon and the grand opening of the Residential Village last fall.
“She gave not just money but also time, insight and her full heart to this campus,” said Sean Marsh, associate vice chancellor for Alumni & Stakeholder Engagement, who worked closely with Hunter over many years. “She made everyone feel like family.”
As supporters of UW Bothell, Jan and Dick Hunter contributed generously to scholarships and student needs, including support for student memorial funds and emergency assistance. Together, they also established a $1 million planned gift that eventually will support the chancellor’s discretionary fund.
Enduring influence
Jan Hunter’s approach to giving was both strategic and personal. She believed in investing in people as much as programs and was admired for her ability to lead with kindness and conviction. Even facing health challenges in recent years, she remained engaged with the University and eager to support future opportunities.
“She really walked the walk,” Marsh said. “She wanted the world to be better, and she did something about it.”
From her roots in the city of Bothell to her transformative support for UW Bothell, Jan Hunter leaves behind a legacy of generosity, integrity and care — a legacy that will live on in the spaces she helped shape and the students she loved.
Those wishing to honor Jan Hunter’s memory are invited to email a member of the UW Bothell development team.
