Leadership Society Reflects 150 Years of Giving

Generous support from donors has been vital to Lewis & Clark’s success since its founding in 1867. So, in tribute to philanthropy’s long-standing and future impact, our Leadership Society now celebrates those whose gifts to the institution total $1,867 or more annually.

Special tiers have also been established for young alumni (classes of 2003–17) to encourage and recognize their support of their alma mater. Segmented by five-year increments, these levels range from $150 to $1,866 per year (see chart below).

“Our sesquicentennial and the arrival of President Wim Wiewel make this an ideal time to honor our past and enhance our future by joining the Leadership Society,” says Josh Walter, vice president for institutional advancement. “Members also set the pace in motivating others to support Lewis & Clark.”

“Leadership Society gifts fund scholarships, strengthen teaching and academic programs, and provide other critical resources that directly benefit students in all three of our schools,” says Hillary Dixon BA ’99, president of the Board of Alumni. “Alumni participation underscores our gratitude for everything the college gave us and our deep commitment to supporting today’s students and professors. Alumni gifts propel success.”

As one example of the importance of these gifts, Walter points out that last fiscal year, 93 percent of contributions to the Annual Fund were from Leadership Society members.

All gifts, regardless of designation, count toward Leadership Society membership. Matching gifts, foundation giving, and giving through donor-advised funds to Lewis & Clark also count. Gifts may be made in monthly or quarterly installments. Multiyear pledges at Leadership Society levels help Lewis & Clark predict future funding, reduce solicitation costs, and focus on connecting donor gifts with student and faculty needs.

Leadership giving has helped power the college since its founding. In 1867, as the Presbytery of Oregon advanced plans to build a school in Albany, the townspeople held several fundraisers that secured the necessary cash and pledges to make the long-held dream real. Their generosity established a pattern of broad and deep support that has, in the ensuing 150 years, made dreams a reality for generations of students.

Visit go.lclark.edu/leadership or email giving@lclark.edu for more information on becoming a member of the Leadership Society.

Charter Circle

$1,867–$4,999

Young Alumni Membership to Charter Circle:

1–5 years out (Classes of 2013–17): $150–$499

6–10 years out (Classes of 2008–12): $500–$999

11–15 years out (Classes of 2003–07): $1,000–$1,866

To recognize your commitment, the college thanks you with:

• Invitations to special events
• Access to concierge services from Leadership Society staff
• A printed copy of the annual report

Scholars’ Circle

$5,000–$9,999

In addition to the above:

• Communications from an accomplished scholar

Deans’ Circle

$10,000–$24,999

In addition to the above:

• Exclusive insider updates from the president and deans

President’s Circle

$25,000+

In addition to the above:

• Opportunity for engagement with campus leadership