What counts in the reunion gift?
The reunion gift recognizes nearly all new gifts and
pledges made since your last reunion, covering the
period between July 1, 2004 and June 30, 2009. This
includes annual contributions to the Alumni Fund,
capital gifts, and planned gifts. For the Classes of 1996
and prior, Quarter Century Fund gifts and investment
returns will be added in aggregate to the totals for the
25th Reunion.
What is the difference between an annual gift to Yale
and a capital gift?
Annual gifts are current-use gifts made to the Alumni
Fund. All other gifts are considered capital gifts. Capital
gifts may be restricted and designated to a specific
purpose. These gifts match donors’ interests with the
University’s needs in exciting ways. Some examples of
capital gifts include gifts to: endowed scholarships; curriculum
review initiatives; the new residential colleges;
international programs; and athletic teams and facilities.
Gifts of a certain size also offer donors special recognition
opportunities. Both annual and capital gifts count
toward the reunion gift total.
What is the Yale Tomorrow campaign? Will my reunion
gift receive campaign credit?
Yale Tomorrow is a five-year, $3.5 billion capital campaign
that will enhance those programs that are already
among the nation’s best and strengthen those programs
that are vital to maintaining Yale’s position as one of the
world’s great universities. The campaign will impact
all areas of the University and is organized around four
central themes: the College, the Arts, the Sciences, and
the World. All gifts that count toward the reunion also
count toward the Yale Tomorrow campaign that ends
June 30, 2011.
Do I have to pay my reunion gift all at once?
No. Annual and capital gifts can be paid over as many as
five years. The entire amount will count in your Class’s
reunion gift total. Payments on pledges made prior to
July 1, 2004 do not receive credit for this reunion as they
were included for your previous reunion gift.
Do Class dues count? What about gifts to my secret
society?
No. Class dues are tax deductible but are considered
gifts to the Class and not to Yale. Gifts to secret societies
and other groups considered independent of the
University are not eligible for reunion credit. For more
information, contact the Development Office.
Should I still make my annual gift
to the Alumni Fund during a reunion year?
Yes! Current-use gifts provide essential resources for
Yale’s operating budget. Although alumni make annual
gifts each year, a special larger-than-usual annual contribution
is an excellent way to celebrate your reunion.
Alumni Fund gifts at leadership levels can qualify you
for Nathan Hale Associates recognition.
I also attended one of Yale's other schools. Do gifts to
graduate or professional schools count?
Yes! Gifts to Yale’s other schools count toward the
reunion gift total. Gifts to other areas of Yale, such
as the Library, the Art Gallery, and the Parents Fund
also count.
I have Yale in my will. Can I get credit for that?
Yes! You can document a non-contingent bequest
intention and receive discounted reunion and campaign
credit based upon the age of the youngest individual
upon whose death Yale will receive the bequest. The
age, a minimum of 65 years, will be determined as of
December 31, 2011. In addition, you can make a bequest
by naming Yale as a beneficiary of your IRA, 401(k), or
other qualified retirement plan, which can potentially
save significant income and estate taxes.
I am retired and need all of my income. Are there ways
to make gifts other than simply writing a check?
Planned giving may be a great option for you. In addition
to bequests, planned gifts include charitable
remainder trusts and gift annuities. Gifts such as real
estate, art, and collectibles are also options. Gifts may
be credited at full or prorated value. You will also be
eligible to become a member of Yale Legacy Partners,
a planned giving recognition society. Learn more at
www.yale.planyourlegacy.org.
I’m not able to give a lot. Does my gift matter?
Yes! Every dollar is important and every donor counts.
And, you may be able to increase your support to Yale
by taking advantage of your employer’s matching gift
program. Participation in giving is a benchmark of alumni
satisfaction and helps Yale attract corporate/foundation
grants and recognition by national publications.
What communications can I expect to receive this year?
You’ll be hearing from the AYA and your Class with
event-related information; you may hear from Reunion
Gift Committee members and staff about your reunion
gift to Yale; and you may hear from Class Agents and
Bulldog Callers about Alumni Fund contributions.
Where can I go for more information on giving?
Please feel free to contact the Development Office and
speak with the Reunion Giving Officer working with
your Class by phone at 800.395.7646 or by e-mail at
reunion.giving@yale.edu.
You can find information about the Yale Tomorrow
campaign at www.yale.edu/yaletomorrow, and
additional information on gift opportunities at
www.givingcatalog.yale.edu.
Back to Top
