Detroit Native Gives Back to Favorite Hometown Institutions

Marilyn Blatnikoff has not lived in the Detroit area since her college days. She grew up in Farmington Hills, the daughter of parents she describes as Detroiters. She graduated from the University of Michigan and from Tulane University, where she received a master’s degree in Latin American studies. After graduation, Marilyn migrated to the Washington, D.C., area, where she enjoyed a lengthy career in government service.

But Marilyn has certainly not forgotten her Michigan roots. She maintains close relationships with many friends in the area. She returns faithfully to Michigan, every six weeks to get her hair done at her favorite salon in Ann Arbor! Despite having lived in northern Virginia for almost five decades, Marilyn is quick to point out that she will always be from Detroit.

Most importantly, she remains loyal to our local institutions, and has chosen to remember the Detroit Institute of Arts and another local nonprofit in her estate plan.

We are so impressed with Marilyn’s exceptional devotion to her hometown and so grateful for her planned gift! For more information, contact Rosemarie Gleeson at (313) 494-5233 or rgleeson@dia.org.