A devoted Tulane alumnus who was known for his quick, dry wit, lively conversational talents and extensive knowledge of history, Gaylord M. Bickham (A&S ’56) was a man who knew the power of a legacy.

So, when the time came to consider his own legacy, he looked for a way to support the work of an institution that had meant so much to him throughout his life — and honor his beloved parents at the same time.

Bickham left an estate gift of more than $4 million to Tulane, meaningfully supporting priorities at his alma mater that were dear to his heart. He generously elected to support the field of study that meant so much to him throughout his life and honor his parents’ memories as well by establishing the Mouton and Leatrice Bickham Memorial Chair in European History at Tulane University.

His estate gift to Tulane further established the Gaylord Mouton Bickham (A&S ’56) Scholarship in Liberal Arts, which welcomes students to enjoy all Tulane has to offer.

Bickham was a lifelong Louisianan. Born and raised in Franklinton, for many years he owned and managed the Bickham Oil Company, which served the local community and surrounding parishes. But New Orleans was forever in his heart.

Throughout his life, when he wasn’t on one of his many excursions to London and Paris, he’d return weekly to the city to dine at some of New Orleans’ finest restaurants.

As Tulane and New Orleans made a lasting impression on Bickham, so too did he decide to leave a lasting impression on the university.

Bickham’s estate gift to Tulane demonstrates how personal philanthropy can amplify one life-changing educational experience into a legacy that touches countless students’ lives for generations to come.