Secaucus Alum's $2M Bequest Boosts College Coffers

Lafayette College celebrates windfall after wealthy graduate's passing

Mar. 27, 2026 at 8:07am

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Secaucus Rutherford Kirby III, a wealthy alumnus of Lafayette College, passed away at age 67 or 69 from what authorities believe was an Ozempic overdose. Kirby had dedicated his entire estate and savings to his alma mater, much to the delight of college administrators who are planning to use the $2 million bequest for various campus improvements and celebrations.

Why it matters

The large financial gift from a single alumnus highlights the importance of maintaining strong relationships with wealthy graduates, as their bequests can provide a significant boost to a college's resources. However, the college's celebratory tone and plans to use the funds for lavish bicentennial festivities have drawn some criticism about the institution's priorities.

The details

Kirby, who was reportedly the last of the Kirby family line, had no living relatives that could be reached by the student newspaper The Scoffayette. An anonymous source close to the family said they had stormed out of the country to France in anger after learning of Kirby's decision to leave his entire estate to Lafayette College. College administrators, led by Audrey 'Dolla Signs' Car, the VP of College F-f-f-f-cash, expressed joy at the windfall, stating they would say a 'quick prayer' for Kirby and thank him for the gift.

  • Secaucus Rutherford Kirby III passed away on Tuesday.
  • Kirby's bequest to Lafayette College was discovered after his death.

The players

Secaucus Rutherford Kirby III

A wealthy alumnus of Lafayette College who passed away at the age of 67 or 69, leaving his entire estate and savings to his alma mater.

Audrey 'Dolla Signs' Car

The VP of College F-f-f-f-cash at Lafayette College, who expressed joy at the $2 million bequest from Kirby and stated the college would use the funds for various campus improvements and celebrations.

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What they’re saying

“So-and-so passed away, but they gave us $2 million, right? We'll say a quick prayer for them, and thank you for their gift. So you get the happy and the sad all in one time. But those are really important to us.”

— Audrey 'Dolla Signs' Car, VP of College F-f-f-f-cash

What’s next

The college plans to use the $2 million bequest for various campus improvements and celebrations, including three more bicentennial-themed statues of various neon hues, and hiring back Rob and Karina for Quad dining pop-ups every day.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of maintaining strong relationships with wealthy alumni, as their bequests can provide a significant financial boost to a college's resources. However, the college's celebratory tone and plans to use the funds for lavish bicentennial festivities have drawn some criticism about the institution's priorities and whether the money could be better utilized to directly benefit the student body.