The Columbus Foundation is honored to work with donors throughout the many stages of their philanthropic journey—from identifying their unique giving goals and creating personalized charitable funds to helping donors leave a lasting legacy through a planned gift.
One such donor is Laurina "Laura" Mignardi Harper, who passed away in December 2024 at the remarkable age of 102. Born in Ithaca, New York, Laura was a passionate educator who taught high school English and eventually led the English Department at Brighton High School in Rochester, New York, where she and her husband John lived for many years. After their retirement, the couple moved near Grove City to live on a farm John inherited from his great-grandfather. Tragically, John passed away unexpectedly in 1984. However, having spent nearly a decade building a new life in central Ohio, Laura felt at home and decided to stay.
Laura was dedicated to her community, joining local organizations such as the Columbus Museum of Art, Friends of the Southwest Public Libraries, and the Grove City Arts Council. She was also deeply committed to the Grove City Cancer Thrift Shop—a nonprofit benefitting LifeCare Alliance Cancer Services—where she volunteered for 40 years.
In 2008, on the recommendation of a trusted friend, R.L. “Rick” Richards, Laura established a Donor Advised Fund at The Columbus Foundation, the John T. and Laurina M. Harper Charitable Fund, to support causes she cared about. Later, Laura worked closely with The Columbus Foundation to set up a Charitable Gift Annuity and a bequest to the Foundation through her trust. Both planned gifts help to carry on Laura’s legacy, ensuring that her philanthropic wishes continue for years to come.
“Laura quietly and generously honored her and her husband’s families, education, the arts, and her community with her time, talent, and treasure during her life and now after her passing through The Columbus Foundation,” said Rick, who now serves as the successor advisor to her fund.