Thanks from the Society of Families co-chairs - Bill and Sandi Strong P’04

As the new Co-Chairs of the Society of Families Steering Committee, we are proud to announce that the Parents’ Fund had another record-breaking year. For the second consecutive year, Colgate parents gave more than $1 million. Thanks to all of you, Colgate’s parent fundraising effort continues to be in the elite category of leading parent funds in the nation. In a year of uncertainties, when celebrations may seem trivial, it is important to acknowledge the accomplishments of Colgate parents. With this annual publication, we wish to recognize all whose hard work and contributions helped us to exceed our goals. Bravo!

The numbers speak for themselves. Parents raised $1,454,936, exceeding the goal of $1,225,000 by $346,743. Participation was at an all time high of 2,148, an increase of 188 donors.

More than making a financial gift, parents gave their time and energy to call parents of accepted students, to host receptions at their homes, to offer students a job or internship and attended athletic events and club functions. Our son Fletcher ’03 talks about the spirit on campus and we have it too.

We would like to extend a special thank you to Ed and Sally Stilwill P’01,’03 for their role as Co-Chairs the past two years. Ed and Sally were instrumental in many Parents’ Fund successes and their enthusiasm has raised the bar for the Society of Families. Finally, we would like once again to express our appreciation for all that you have done for Colgate and for our children.

We look forward to meeting as many of you as we can during the upcoming year!

Sincerely,
Bill and Sandi Strong P’04
Co-Chairs
Society of Families

Parents Fund Facts

• 2,148 parents contributed - 188 more than last year
• Goal: $1,225,000 - Raised: $1,454,936
• 243 more Parents of Alumni (PALs) gave a gift this year and surpassed their goal of $300,000 by $164,550
• Presidents’ Club Membership grew to 240 - an increase of 16 members
• Presidents’ Club Gifts made up 67 percent of total giving – a new record

What is the Colgate Parents’ Fund?
The Parents’ Fund is a special part of Colgate’s fundraising effort that includes gifts from current parents and Parents of Alumni (PALs). By giving to the Parents’ Fund, families support the library, financial aid, athletics, faculty teaching, the arts, study groups and more.

Why is the Parents’ Fund vital?
We understand how parents may feel when asked to contribute to the Fund in addition to paying tuition. The reality is that tuition covers only about 70 percent of the cost of a Colgate education. The remaining 30 percent comes from endowment income and annual contributions from parents, alumni/ae, foundations, and friends of the University.

Where do gifts to the Parents’ Fund go?

• Unrestricted gifts are funds that Colgate can use in support of the highest needs of the institution. They are not earmarked for a specific program and are the University’s greatest priority.
• Restricted gifts are directed to support a specific program or area which include athletics, extracurricular activities, the library, performing arts, academic programs and study groups.
• Capital gifts are directed toward a specific purpose that meets the needs and priorities of the University to ensure a strong permanent endowment, help to build and restore campus facilities, and sustain a comprehensive range of academic programs.

The Presidents’ Club:
Active Member $1,500
Partner $2,500
Fellow $5,000
Council $10,000
Founder $25,000
Member in Perpetuity $250,000 (given within 10 years)