HASTINGS, Neb. – Hastings College is receiving a $9 million gift from a 1965 graduate who passed away last year. 

A news release says Central City native Ed Osterman made the decision early on in his life to make an annual gift to support Hastings College, directing his gifts predominantly to the care of campus facilities. Osterman passed away on Christmas Day in 2023.

On Thursday, Hastings College announced Osterman gifted his estate, a combination of financial funds and real estate, including a 400-acre farm near Central City to Hastings College. 

Osterman’s estate totaled more than $9 million, making it the single largest gift in the history of the College.

About $5 million will be used over the next five years on deferred maintenance projects, while about $4 million was placed into Osterman Endowed Deferred Maintenance Fund within the Hastings College Endowment.

"This gift is such a blessing," said Hastings College Foundation Executive Director Chelsea LeMar. “To have someone who worked hard their entire life look back at their experience at Hastings College and want to support the College, it’s just incredible. We appreciate Ed, the Osterman family and this gift, and are thankful to have support in maintaining our beautiful campus.”

“Ed Osterman’s generosity is a testament to his lifelong commitment to Hastings College," said Hastings College President Dr. Rich Lloyd. "His legacy will have a lasting impact on our campus, ensuring that our campus remains a source of pride and inspiration for generations of students. We are grateful for his profound contribution.”

  Hastings College

 (Ed Osterman in 2019 Courtesy: Hastings College)