A Message from President Rebecca S. Chopp - Alumni

A Message from President Rebecca S. Chopp 

I want to take this opportunity to extend my deepest thanks to you for 

volunteering for Colgate. 

Volunteerism requires dedication and commitment, and with countless 

demands pulling at each of us in any given day, prioritization of our 

activities becomes very important. By giving your time, you demonstrate 

the spirit that is Colgate. 

During the last fiscal year, which ended on May 31, 2008, we received 

generous support of more than $39 million from 46 percent of our 

alumni. To achieve this feat, our volunteers reached out to more than 

3,300 graduates. Parents also had a record year raising over $4.6 million 

from non alumni parents. 

Your work this year will go beyond raising money and bringing us closer to our $400 million campaign 

goal; you will serve as a direct line of communication with members of the Colgate community. By 

taking the time to listen to their thoughts and reminisce about their experiences — and by sharing 

those interactions with us — you will help us develop a better understanding of what’s on the minds of 

our alumni and parents. With this knowledge, we can continue to build relationships with our 29,000 

alumni and, together, keep Colgate at the leading edge of liberal arts universities in America. 

Regards, 

Rebecca S. Chopp 

President, Colgate University 

Colgate University’s fiscal year June 1 – May 31 1

2 Colgate University’s fiscal year June 1 – May 31

Table of Contents 

Colgate Today 

Admissions Statistics............................................................................................1 

Off Campus & Extended Study Programs...........................................................2 

Career Services....................................................................................................4 

Alumni Corporation............................................................................................5 

Residential Education..........................................................................................6 

Understanding Colgate’s Finances........................................................................8 

Endowment & Comparison................................................................................9 

Reasons for Support..........................................................................................10 

Passion for the Climb: The Campaign for Colgate............................................11 

Ways to Make a Gift..........................................................................................12 

Web Links.........................................................................................................13 

Colgate Day......................................................................................................14 

Individual Volunteer Sections 

Alumni Affairs...................................................................................................15 

Annual Fund.....................................................................................................33 

Presidents’ Club.................................................................................................39 

Parents’ & Grandparents’ Fund.........................................................................45 

A Fundraiser’s Dictionary..................................................................................52 



Admissions Statistics 

Profile of Class of 2012 

This year’s applicant pool was the largest and most diverse in Colgate’s history. The class was 

chosen from an applicant pool of 9,415, representing all 50 states, the District of Columbia, 

and 119 countries. Admitted students boast an average GPA of 3.74 and an average combined 

SAT of 1403. 

Total Applications: 

9,415 (50 states, D.C., 119 countries) 

Admitted students: 

Accepted: 2,251 (23.9%) 

Early Decision: 

SAT middle 50% 660-740v 670-760m 

ACT middle 50% 31-33 

Average GPA 3.74 out of 4.0 

Public/Private high schools 69%/31% 

741 applications; 369 admitted; 366 enrolled; 269 denied; 88 deferred 

Multicultural students: 

2,864 applications; 658 admitted; 173 enrolled (22.8% of class) 

International students: 

1,151 applications; 104 admitted (67 countries); 36 enrolled (5% of class) 

Tuition, 

Room and 

Board cost 

approximately 

$51,000 in the 

2008-2009 

academic year 

Children/grandchildren of alumni: 

306 applications; 121 admitted; 71 enrolled 

Geography: 

Region 

Percent of 

Percent of 

Applications 

Admitted 

New York 26% 27% 

New England 16% 17% 

Mid-Atlantic 20% 21% 

Midwest 8% 8% 

Southeast 4% 5% 

West and Southwest 13% 15% 

International 13% 6% 


Off-Campus & Extended Study Programs 

With more than 20 semester-long off-campus study programs, Colgate is a leader in the field, 

typically ranking in the top ten among baccalaureate institutions for the number of students 

studying abroad. Approximately 70% of Colgate students participate in the study abroad 

program. Some examples: 

Colgate is the only undergraduate college in America with a study semester at the National 

Institute of Health, offering undergraduates six-month, intensive research experiences in NIH 

labs. 

Undergraduates get an insider’s look at Washington, D.C., political life through the 

Washington Study Group. Established in 1935, it is the oldest of Colgate’s study groups and 

was the first program of its kind established in D.C. 

Semester Programs 

• Cardiff, Wales - natural sciences 

• Dijon, France - language, literature, and civilization 

• Freiburg, Germany - language, literature, and civilization 

• Geneva, Switzerland - economics and political science 

• Kyoto, Japan - language, culture, and social structure 

• London, England - groups in economics, English, and history 

• Madras, India - Indian culture, especially religion, art, music, and dance 

• Madrid, Spain - language, literature, art history, history, and politics 

• Manchester, England - interdisciplinary studies 

• Moscow, Russia - language, culture, and literature 

• Nanjing, China - language, culture, and social structure 

• National Institutes of Health (Bethesda, Maryland) - health sciences 

• Northern Europe - a peace studies group focusing on history, politics, culture, and society 

• San Francisco, California - sociology and Asian studies, Pacific Rim history and culture 

• Santa Fe, New Mexico - Native American history, archaeology, life, and culture 

• Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic - language and culture 

• St. Andrews, Scotland - philosophy and religion 

• Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies - Caribbean studies 

• Venice, Italy - language, literature, art history, medieval and renaissance history, 

archaeology, classical studies 

• Washington, D.C. - political science 

• Wollongong, Australia - Australian history, geography, and environmental issues 


Extended Study Programs 

A number of courses offer short-term study components that extend the course beyond the 

campus and beyond the regular term. These programs offer opportunities for students to gain 

access to institutions and individuals relevant to their coursework that are not available on 

campus. Recent extended study trips: 

• Athens- The Material Culture of Athens 

• Beijing- Comparative Health Systems 

• Beijing- The Living City 

• Denmark- The Scandinavian Welfare State: A Gendered Perspective 

• Ireland- Medieval and Modernist Ireland 

• Japan- Advent of the Atomic Bomb 

• Manchester- CORE 121 The Monument Mathematics 

• Mexico- Archaeoastronomy 

• Mexico- Michoacán 

• New Mexico- Pueblo communities 

• New York City- United Nations/National Security 

• New York City- Theater Through the Ages 

• Paris- Modern Art in the Museums of Paris 

• Rome/Pompeii- The Material Culture of Rome and Pompeii 

• South Africa- Core 190 South Africa 

• Turkey- The Islamic Heritage of Turkey 

• Zambia- Introduction of African Studies 

Colgate was 

known as 

Madison 

University 

until 1890 


Career Services 

Programs, Internships & Recruiting 

The Center for Career Services is committed to providing the highest quality assistance 

to all students in their efforts to translate their Colgate liberal arts education into diverse 

postgraduate opportunities. 

Programs and Services 

Cover letters and job search correspondence 

Resume guide 

Mock interviews 

Colgate Connection Career Advisor 

Job search skills 

Career management 

Career exploration tools and resources 

Graduate & professional school guides 

Scholarships & fellowships 

Senior and Internship Recruiting Programs 

Information sessions, on-campus interviewing and resume collections are services provided 

through our on-campus recruiting program. Students who are part of the recruiting program 

have gained eligibility to participate through a formal process and have agreed to abide by 

professional and ethical standards. 

Internship & Job Postings 

Consider posting internships or jobs with us. Your posting will be included in our naviGATE 

database and available to all Colgate students. Please email ColgateRecruiting@colgate.edu for 

more information. 

Colgate Connection 

The Colgate Connection, coordinated by the Center for Career Services, is a group 

of approximately 3,000 alumni and parent volunteers who offer students and alumni 

opportunities to explore career options and make professional contacts. In addition to those 

who have specifically volunteered to help, Colgate alumni, in general, are usually receptive to 

being contacted for career-related information. 

What are other ways volunteers can provide career-related support to Colgate students and 

graduates 

Sign up to be a career advisor for students or recent alumni. 

Encourage your organization to participate in Colgate’s recruiting programs. 

Notify us of full-time, internship, winter break, and summer job opportunities for both students 

and alumni. 

Volunteer to organize a career-related program through the alumni club in your area. 

Contact information 

Center for Career Services, Colgate University, 13 Oak Drive, Hamilton, NY 13346 

Phone: 315.228.7380, Fax: 315.228.7178 


Alumni Corporation 

The Alumni Corporation is comprised of all Colgate graduates as well as all former students 

who have satisfactorily completed at least one semester at Colgate and whose classes have 

graduated. There are currently more than 30,000 living members. 

Alumni Council 

The Alumni Council is the governing body of the entire alumni population at Colgate. The 

council is comprised of 55 elected and appointed members (including 6 who also serve on 

the Board of Trustees) representing alumni with a diverse set of backgrounds, experiences and 

viewpoints. The council does not make policy but serves as a liaison between alumni and the 

university; it develops active and enduring alumni involvement in the university by considering 

all programs and services put forth on behalf of alumni and by serving as the alumni voice in 

communicating with the university. 

Council members serve four-year terms, sitting on committees concerned with all areas of the 

college. The standing committees include Admission, Advancement, Athletics, Awards, Career 

Services, District Clubs, Nominations, Communications, and University Relations. 

District Clubs Committee 

The District Clubs Committee includes many current and former club presidents and is 

charged with providing information, guidance, support, coordination and encouragement to 

alumni clubs and volunteers. The committee meets three times a year to discuss issues that 

pertain to clubs. The committee also selects the annual club award winners. 

Regional Vice Presidents 

Regional Vice Presidents (RVPs) are members of the Alumni Council who serve on the District 

Clubs Committee and represent different regions of the country. RVPs act as liaisons between 

club presidents and the Office of Alumni Affairs and offer another means of sharing ideas. 

13 men 

13 dollars 

13 prayers 

13 articles 

started what 

is now Colgate 

University 


Residential Education 

First Year, Sophomore & Broad Street Community Experiences 

First Year Experience 

The first-year experience supports students’ transition to higher education and independent 

living within a community. Students live in designated residence halls and they engage in 

first-year seminars and life skills workshops on topics such as time management, networking, 

business etiquette and decision making. 

The First-Year Experience includes: 

• First-Year Seminars – FSEMs introduce students to a variety of liberal arts topics and ways 

of learning. 

• Life Skills Program Tracks – Topics include: diversity and social justice, living a meaningful 

life, career exploration and Gate 101 (for students interested in accelerating their college 

leadership track). 

• Think Tank Lunch Conversations – Every Monday, students are invited to meet with 

classmates and one faculty member for open conversation. 

• Life Skills Workshops – Coordinated by the Center for Career Services, these sessions help 

students develop important life skills such as business etiquette, time management, critical 

thinking and conflict resolution. 

• Residential life programs such as Leadership Options for Tomorrow (LOFT) and 

Community Action Outreach Opportunity (CAndOO). 

Sophomore Year Experience 

Numerous opportunities encourage students to explore and engage in the habits and skills 

necessary for active citizenry and democracy, including public speaking, active listening, 

teamwork and conflict resolution. Students also solidify their decisions about choice of 

concentration (major), off-campus study and potential career paths. 

The Sophomore Year Experience includes: 

• Learn more about choosing a major 

• Network with alumni 

• Get involved with the Sophomore Class Council 

• Explore the “Arts of Democracy” 

• Participate in the Resume Challenge 

• Journey to the U.S. Memorial Holocaust Museum 

• Research and think about a study abroad program 

• Engage in community and service learning experiences 

• Take part in a wide array of financial education initiatives 

• Gain insight on how to successfully manage your time 


Broad Street Community (Junior and Senior Years) 

Juniors and seniors put their citizenship and community building skills into practice while 

living in the Broad Street Community, where fun and self-governance are as important as 

service to others. 

Groups of students select those with whom they will live – in free-standing theme houses, 

Greek organizations or in small communities within the new townhouse complex. 

All of the houses provide students with a distinct living experience and the opportunity to 

explore their values, belief systems and individual views of the world. Most houses participate 

in a cooperative living environment where students cook, clean and dine together in a familial 

house setting. 

West Hall is the 

oldest building 

on campus, built 

in 1827 


Understanding Colgate’s Finances 

Tuition, Room & Board, Annual Fund Gifts 

Operating Budget (FY 08-09) 

$147.3 million total cost of operations 

$5.8 million of debt services 

$32.9 million $5.8 million 

Endowment 

$729.2 million as of 5/31/08 (unaudited) 

complex spending formula that generates 

roughly 5.0% per year 

Capital Project Expenditures 

approximately $34.9 million spent annually 

over last five years (2004-08) 

approximately $7.0 million annually to be 

spent over next five years (2009-13) 

Gifts, + or - Investment return 

Gifts, Tax-Exempt Debt Proceeds 

2008-09 Operating Revenue 

Gifts & Grants 

7% 

Other Income 

7% 

Student Charges 

63% 

Endowment Support 

23% 

* Other income generated from bookstore profits, tickets sales, etc. 


Endowment Information 

2007 Endowment Comparison of Top 25 Liberal Arts Colleges 

Institution 

Endowment 

Per Student 

Total 

Endowment 

Pomona $1.15M $1.76 Billion 1,531 

Grinnell $1.09M $1.71 Billion 1,570 

Amherst $1.00M $1.66 Billion 1,656 

Swarthmore $974K $1.44 Billion 1,479 

Williams $933K $1.89 Billion 2,027 

Wellesley $740K $1.65 Billion 2,237 

Bowdoin $478K $827 Million 1,729 

Haverford $474K $539 Million 1,138 

Smith $439K $1.36 Billion 3,098 

Bryn Mawr $423K $663 Million 1,568 

Claremont McKenna $411K $474 Million 1,152 

Middlebury $392K $936 Million 2,384 

Hamilton $390K $701 Million 1,799 

Vassar $362K $869 Million 2,396 

Harvey Mudd $357K $260 Million 729 

Carleton $338K $663 Million 1,958 

Washington & Lee $322K $692 Million 2,146 

Colby $321K $598 Million 1,865 

Davidson $293K $489 Million 1,667 

Oberlin $289K $816 Million 2,819 

Colgate $255K $709 Million 2,770 

Wesleyan $234K $710 Million 3,030 

Bates $158K $275 Million 1,744 

# of Students 

Alumni 

contributions 

provide 1/3 

of the cost of 

supporting the 

education of 

2800 students 

Source: US News & World Report Fall 2007 


Reasons For Support 

Academic Programs, Financial Aid, Study Groups & Athletics 

Colgate University remains 63% tuition dependent. Outside support is needed in order to 

ensure the quality of a Colgate education. Gifts directly affect the students’ education by 

helping to support the operating budget which in turn funds the following: 

Academic Programs 

Support new initiatives, student/faculty research projects, and workshops. 

• Lecturers: Bring in global leaders, artists in residence, musicians, etc. Global Leaders 

Lecture Series has been established by the Parents’ Fund. 

• Faculty/Student Research: More than 100 students a year work with faculty on research 

projects in a variety of fields. 

• Expand Areas of Study: Three new concentrations have recently been added to the 

curriculum, Middle Eastern Studies and Islamic Civilization (minor), Theater (major) and 

Film and Media Studies (minor). 

• Faculty & Staff: Continue to recruit and retain innovative and diverse community. 

Financial Aid: 

• Enable students with demonstrated need the opportunity to attend Colgate. 

• Students: Colgate provides financial aid to approximately 39% of the student body. 

• Scholarship: The average Colgate grant is $26,519. 

• Sometimes the needs of accepted students exceed the resources of the financial aid pool and 

Annual Fund dollars are needed to supplement the normal financial aid budget. 

Study Groups 

• Continue to offer and expand Colgate’s 23 premier off-campus study groups. 

• Nearly 70% of Colgate students study off-campus. 

• Cultural and Language Studies in China, Dijon, Dominican Republic, Freiberg, Japan, 

Madrid, Moscow, and the West Indies, International Studies in Geneva, Study of the 

Arts in India and Venice, Study of the Arts, Economics, English or History in London, 

Manchester, Environmental Studies in Australia, Pre-Med Studies at the National Institutes 

of Health, Native American Studies in Santa Fe, Peace Studies in Northern Europe, Asian 

American Studies in San Francisco, Philosophy and Religion in Scotland, Science and 

Mathematics in Wales and Political Science in D.C. . 

Athletics 

• Provide support for training, travel, recruiting costs and facility upgrades to build 

stronger programs. 

• Colgate has 25 NCAA Division I teams, over 30 Club Teams, a large intramural 

program and an Outdoor Education Program. 


The Campaign For Colgate 

Leadership, Specifics & Priorities 

Campaign Leadership 

Jim Elrod ’76, P’04, ’05, ’12 Dick Herbst ’69, P’99, ’03 

National Campaign Chair National Campaign Vice Chair 

Peg Flanagan ’80 Robert Kindler ’76, P’04, ’08, ’12 

National Campaign Vice Chair National Campaign Vice Chair 

Campaign Specifics 

• $400 million campaign for the university — the largest ever in the institution’s history. 

• $280 million raised as of 6/1/2008 

Campaign Priorities 

1. Liberal Arts & Academic Excellence ($119 million) 

Enhance our distinct combination of liberal arts teaching and university research. 

- Case Library & Geyer Center for Information Technology 

- Robert H.N Ho ’56 Science Center 

- 12 Endowed Faculty Chairs 

- Institutes of Advanced Study (Upstate Institute, Harvey Picker Institute for Advanced 

Study in the Sciences and Mathematics, Institute for the Creative and Performing Arts) 

- Enhancing the Liberal Arts (Off-campus and extended study programs, faculty student 

research fellowships, Diversity Initiative, Center for Learning, Teaching, and Research, 

Curriculum Initiative Fund, Academic centers of engagement, Robert Blackmore ’41 

Media Center) 

2. Financial Aid & Access ($87.5 million) 

Continue to make Colgate accessible. Only with adequate resources for financial aid 

can the university ensure that it will be able to enroll the most highly qualified students, 

regardless of their family’s wealth. Competition for the best students is intense and 

financial aid packaging is critical in attracting these students. 

3. Student Life ($30 million) 

Fully implement Colgate’s nationally-recognized vision of residential education and 

campus life. 

- Residential Facilities, First-Year Experience, Sophomore-Year Experience. 

- Leadership Development (Civil and Ethical Leadership Programs, Debate Programs, 

Wellness Initiative, Leadership Institute, Outdoor Education, Athletic Field, Information 

Technology) 

4. General Endowment & Annual Fund ($163.5 million) 

Grow Colgate’s endowment and strengthen our resources. 

The Campaign for Colgate 

Campaign Website 

www.colgatealumni.org/passionfortheclimb 


Ways To Make A Gift 

Credit Card 

You can make a credit card gift online or by phone (see below). You will need the type of credit 

card, the card number, the expiration date and the name as it appears on the card. 

In order to charge a credit card, the gift amount must be at least $5. 

Installment gifts can be made via credit card. Each installment amount will be charged to the 

card on the 13th of each month until desired gift amount is reached. 

Check 

Checks should be made out to Colgate University with the gift designation in the memo line 

of the check. All gifts should be sent to the following address: 

Gift Records 

Colgate University 

13 Oak Drive 

Hamilton, NY 13346 

Online & Phone 

Login at www.colgatealumni.org/makeagift | Call Colgate directly at 1-800-668-44CU 

Matching Gift 

Many corporations offer matching gifts for contributions that employees or their spouses make 

to institutions such as Colgate. This helps dramatically, at no cost to the individual donor, so 

don’t forget to ask if your company matches! 

Matching gift forms can be obtained from your company’s human resources or personnel 

department. 

Colgate does not count matching gifts as part of the personal giving record when determining 

the gift recognition society for a donor. Recognition is based solely upon the individual’s (and 

spouse’s, in the case of a Colgate Couple) generosity. 

Planned Giving 

Members of the advancement staff can provide additional information and assist you with 

planned gift arrangements such as bequests, gift annuities or trusts. All discussions will be held 

in strictest confidence. 


Web Links 

Volunteer Log In Page 

• Alumni Affairs 

www.colgatealumni.org/profile 

• Annual Fund 

www.colgatealumni.org/classgifts 

• Parents’ Fund 

www.colgatealumni.org/parentcommittee 

• Presidents’ Club 

www.colgatealumni.org/presclubvolunteers 

Colgate Links 

Admission 

www.colgate.edu/admission 

Academic Calendar 

www.colgate.edu/calendar 

Alumni 

www.colgatealumni.org 

Alumni Council 

www.colgatealumni.org/alumnicouncil 

Alumni Events 

www.colgatealumni.org/upcomingevents 

Annual Fund 

www.colgatealumni.org/annualfund 

Athletics 

www.athletics.colgate.edu 

or www.gocolgateraiders.com 

Bookstore 

www.colgatebookstore.com/ 

Colgate Day 

www.colgatealumni.org/colgateday 

Careers Services 

www.colgate.edu/careerservices 

Center for Leadership & Student 

Involvement 

www.colgate.edu/clsi 

Family Weekend 

www.colgatealumni.org/familyweekend 

Faculty 

www.colgate.edu/faculty 

Financial aid 

www.colgate.edu/financialaid 

Libraries 

http://exlibris.colgate.edu/ 

Make a Gift 

www.colgatealumni.org/makeagift 

Matching Gifts 

www.colgatealumni.org/mathing gifts 

Parents’ Fund 

www.colgatealumni.org/parentsfund 

Presidents’ Club 

www.colgatealumni.org/presidentsclub 

Residence Life 

www.colgate.edu/reslife 

Reunion Information 

www.colgatealumni.org/reunion 

Student Activities 

www.colgate.edu/clsi 

The Scene 

www4.colgate.edu/scene 

Traveling to Colgate 

www.colgate.edu/directions 

Local Hamilton Information 

www.hamiltonny.com 

Homes for rent during special events 

www.hamiltonnyhomes.com 

In 1826, 

123 acres 

were 

purchased for 

$2,000 

which would 

become 

Colgate’s 

campus 


Colgate Day 

A world-wide celebration – every Friday the 13th 

Every Friday the 13th, we ask every member of the Colgate community to embrace Colgate’s 

association with the number 13 and announce their affiliation by wearing school regalia 

and/or maroon. This new custom officially debuted in 2005 and honors the tradition of the 

university’s founding by 13 men, with 13 dollars, 13 prayers and 13 articles. 

We encourage you to celebrate the day locally with gatherings or events. The next official 

Colgate Days are as follows: 

February 2009 

March 2009 

November 2009 

August 2010 

May 2011 

January 2012 

April 2012 

July 2012 


Office of Alumni Affairs 

Welcome to the Colgate University Alumni Club Network! 

There are more than 50 clubs located around the country and abroad that offer alumni, parents, and friends 

a variety of ways to connect with each other. By volunteering their time and energy to the club network, the 

volunteers play a vital role in promoting life-long learning and connection with Colgate. The Office of Alumni 

Affairs is fortunate for the volunteers who lead regional clubs, plan reunions, raise funds, offer career counseling, 

promote Colgate to prospective students, and provide leadership and advice for the University. 

The following guide is intended to help volunteers plan successful events and develop a strong and active alumni 

club. We hope that volunteers add to this knowledge and pass it on to those who will follow in their footsteps. 

The Office of Alumni Affairs is committed to working with club leaders to help the clubs remain a vital link 

with Colgate and the Hamilton community. Enjoy the role of an ambassador for the University as well as the 

opportunity to connect with fellow alumni. 

Alumni Affairs Staff 

RuthAnn Loveless MA ’72 

Lorie Riedl 

Vice President of Alumni Affairs 

Associate Director of Alumni Affairs 

315-228-7433 315-228-6789 

rloveless@colgate.edu 

lriedl@colgate.edu 

Amanda Kalal 

Amber Vogt 

Associate Director of Alumni Affairs 

Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs 

315-228-7873 315-228-6794 

akalal@colgate.edu 

avogt@colgate.edu 

Vicky Stone 

Amy Montroy 

Senior Administrative Assistant 

Administrative Assistant 

315-228-7433 315-228-7439 

vstone@colgate.edu 

amontroy@colgate.edu 

Table of Contents for Alumni Affairs section 

Alumni Affairs Volunteer Job Description............... 16 

Alumni Club Mission Statement............................. 17 

Starting a New Club............................................... 17 

Alumni Club Officers............................................... 18 

Meetings and Attendance....................................... 19 

Volunteer Management.......................................... 19 

Avoiding Burn-Out.................................................. 20 

Leadership Succession.......................................... 20 

The Alumni Website............................................... 21 

Finances................................................................. 22 

Annual Planning Process....................................... 23 

Club Awards.........................................................23 

Event Planning.....................................................24 

Event Photos........................................................25 

Sample Event Calendars.....................................26 

Send-Off Parties...................................................27 

Social Events.......................................................29 

Family Events.......................................................29 

Educational/Cultural Events.................................30 

Community Service Events..................................31 

Sporting Events....................................................31 


Alumni Affairs Volunteer Job Description 

Title: 

University Support: 

Alumni Club President 

Amanda Kalal: (315-228-7873, akalal@colgate.edu) 

Club Regions: New England, Upstate New York, Midwest, Far west 

Amber Parker Vogt: (315-228-6974, avogt@colgate.edu) 

Club Regions: Metro I, Metro II, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, 

Southwest, International 

Time Commitment: 

(events per fiscal year) 

Purpose: 

Gateway Clubs – 4 events 

Small Clubs – 5 events 

Medium Clubs – 6 events 

Large Clubs – 8 events 

Metropolitan – 12 events 

• The purpose of Regional Alumni Clubs is to provide the opportunity for Colgate alumni to stay 

connected. Club activities provide educational, cultural, professional and social opportunities 

focused on fostering fellowship in the spirit that is Colgate. Regional Clubs are instrumental in 

maintaining a relationship between alumni, parents and friends and the University. 

Duties: 

• Responsible for being a leader (or contributor) for the club 

• Help to organize, plan, coordinate and serve as a liaison between the club and the University 

• Maintain an open line of communication with Alumni Affairs Office 

• Have a succession plan in place and make efforts to groom successor(s) 

• Remain involved with club activities on a consistent basis 

• Recruit and manage volunteers to help plan events 

Skills/Requirements: 

• A love for Colgate and the ability to serve as an Ambassador for the University 

• Committed to achieving ambitious club goals every year 

• Willing to ask staff and volunteers for help 

• Understand and believe in the importance of participation 

Summary of University Responsibilities: 

• Mailings: The Alumni Office will coordinate, print and mail all of the club mailings and 

emails. All invitations are printed on standard club stationary. 

• Guests Speakers: Please let the Alumni Office know if the club would like a particular faculty 

or staff member, a capella group, or prominent graduate to speak at a club event. The Alumni 

Office will provide the club president with a list of possible faculty/staff speakers, assist with 

reaching out to the presenter and coordinate event details with the club president. 

• Promotion: In addition to mailing invitations and sending emails, the Alumni Office also lists 

club events on the alumni homepage at www.colgatealumni.org and club pages. 

• Event Enhancements: To aid in bringing a bit of Colgate to club events, the Alumni Office can 

provide printed or blank nametags, Colgate cocktail napkins, banners, and Colgate favors. 

• Club Bank Accounts: The Alumni Office will provide each club with its own Colgate bank 

account that can be used to supplement the costs of events, deposit dues, and maintain a 

positive balance each fiscal year. The accounts accrue interest each fiscal year on any balance 

that carries over. 


Alumni Club Mission Statement 

Why alumni clubs are vital to Colgate’s future 

Alumni Clubs Exist To: 

Develop programs which give alumni, parents, students, and friends the opportunity to share 

information, ideas, and memories of Colgate. 

• The most effective club will hold regular events which will allow for social, professional, and 

intellectual interaction focused on fostering fellowship in the spirit that is Colgate. 

Encourage alumni to become involved in life-long learning 

• Intellectually engaging events support and promote the ideals of a Colgate education and 

reinvigorate the student in all of us. 

Serve as a general resource to alumni and undergraduates through camaraderie and networking 

• Colgate is fortunate to have a loyal and active alumni base comprised of thousands of people 

with unique talents, interests, and areas of expertise. The members of the club can serve as a 

great resource for each other, especially to those alumni who are new to the area. 

Promote involvement in the local community 

• Clubs should strive to give something back to their communities in the name of Colgate. 

These events are fun for all ages, provide an opportunity for alumni to network while 

helping out their community, and help expose Colgate’s name to a wider audience, including 

prospective students. 

Provide volunteer opportunities and serve as an extension of the university 

• Clubs give hundreds of alumni a chance to pursue leadership opportunities that generate 

and maintain interest in the university and increase the reach of the university. Examples 

include: serving as an Alumni Admission Volunteer and identifying alumni who can offer 

career-assistance to both alumni and undergraduates. 

Blue and 

magenta 

were Colgate’s 

original colors 

Starting a New Club 

Tips for creating or reorganizing a club 

Any alumnus/a interested in establishing, reorganizing, or simply evaluating if a club would 

work in his/her area should contact the Office of Alumni Affairs. Volunteers are provided a list 

of alumni in the area and some suggestions for a first event. 

A new club or one that is reorganizing should plan 2-3 events during the first year (you 

can find a list of suggested events later in this manual). Plan programs that address current 

alumni interests (such as an update on campus building projects), attract varied audiences and 

different age groups, are held at various times and locations, and include current students and 

parents (especially during the summer and school holidays). 


The alumni office can provide event suggestions and arrange for faculty/staff visits; design, 

print, and mail invitations announcing events and club-related information; send e-mail 

reminders and provide a club webpage; maintain a club savings account; and provide ongoing 

training for new club volunteers. 

We encourage you to invite parents, who enjoy being included in club activities and learning 

more about the university where their son or daughter is spending some of the most significant 

years of their lives. 

Alumni Club Officers 

Job descriptions and board structure 

Every club is different, but a board structure is the most efficient way to organize the club 

allowing a variety of individuals to share the responsibilities. The board does not need to plan 

every event; it should provide overall direction by setting a calendar of events, and the details 

for each event should be coordinated by one or two people. Select officers that represent 

varied ages, experiences, and interests. Make sure the officers have clear job descriptions and 

understand their roles. The following represents one example of a successful officer structure: 

President 

The president guides the club’s calendar of activities and serves as the liaison with the Office 

of Alumni Affairs. The president’s primary focus should be on increasing event attendance, 

motivating and recognizing volunteers, and providing for board succession and a seamless 

transition between officers. The president presides at meetings, submits the annual report, and 

delegates duties to board members as appropriate. 

Vice President 

The vice president presides in the absence of the president, recruits new volunteers, oversees 

calling and e-mail trees, and assists with event planning and staffing. 

Secretary 

The secretary maintains all club records and attendance lists. The secretary also keeps minutes 

of all meetings and sends copies to the Office of Alumni Affairs for centralized record-keeping. 

Treasurer 

The treasurer oversees club finances in cooperation with the Office of Alumni Affairs, and 

collects club dues. 

Board Member 

A board member oversees the planning and implementation of one or more events during the 

year. Suggested committee responsibilities for board members include: athletics, community 

outreach and service, cultural/educational programs, volunteer recruitment and recognition, 

the club scholarship fund, phone and e-mail committees, and social activities. 


Meetings and Attendance 

How to run effective board meetings and increase event attendance 

Effective Board Meetings 

Try to schedule meetings at a regular time; consistency helps reduce confusion. Send the 

meeting agenda in advance of the meeting and bring extra copies to pass out. Board members 

will then know what to expect and will have already had a chance to start brainstorming. 

Start and end the meeting on time. Welcome new members and visitors and do introductions 

if necessary. Pass along campus updates and involve members of the Alumni Council, 

including Regional Vice Presidents, in the meetings and events. Follow the agenda: past and 

upcoming events; required action steps and timelines; and the date, time, and location of the 

next meeting. New business should be discussed at the end of the meeting, rather than disrupt 

the entire agenda. Take minutes and distribute them to all officers. 

Increasing Event Attendance 

It should be no surprise that busy Colgate students have become busy Colgate alumni. 

Consequently, they will need significant lead time to add an event to their calendars. Consider 

sending “save the date” postcards and e-mails. Please send details to the Alumni Office for 

printed invitations 8 weeks in advance. It is also a good idea to establish local calling trees to 

extend a personal invitation. 

Volunteer Management 

Recruiting, recognizing, and motivating volunteers 

2/3 of 

Colgate 

Students 

study abroad 

The leader’s responsibility is to create a group that will allow members to develop the energy 

and commitment to be highly motivated in their work. A successful club values volunteer 

support, openness, trust and confidence, and consensus decision making. 

Volunteers need to know what is expected of them, that their contributions are vital to 

the success of the club, and that they are expected to follow-through on their assignments. 

Volunteers must feel that their voices are heard and progress is being made. 

Break jobs into concrete pieces. Individuals are more likely to volunteer for a job if it is a 

specific task with a set amount of time allotted to complete it. Each volunteer brings varied 

talents and interests to the club; recognize and utilize these talents. Create terms to encourage 

succession, prevent burn-out, and give a sense of ownership and commitment to a great 

number of individuals. 

Personalize recognition; don’t recognize people in a generic way that loses meaning. Know 

individuals’ likes and dislikes and tailor the recognition to that person and what he or she did. 

Celebrations bind people together and build community. 


Avoiding Burn-Out 

Maintaining balance and delegation 

Maintaining Balance 

Planning events can take time, and it can become overwhelming when leaders work full-time, 

have a family, and are involved with other organizations. It is easy to become over-extended 

and burnt-out. 

If a volunteer’s involvement in the club has become more stressful than fulfilling and is always 

focused on the next thing instead of current projects, they should spend some time prioritizing 

the demands in their life. A club won’t be able to follow through on every good idea. Think 

of the time, money, and human resources it will take to accomplish each project. Plan 

ahead! Setting goals in advance gives the club direction and avoids chaos. This can motivate 

volunteers by communicating what the club is striving for and help recruit new members. 

Delegation 

Delegate tasks to other members of the club. Other volunteers may appreciate the chance to 

take on additional responsibility. 

When to delegate: when there is a lot to do, when someone else has particular qualifications 

which would suit the project, when someone expressed interest in the task, when someone 

would benefit from the responsibility 

How to delegate: ask for volunteers. Explain the task and see who is interested. Interest and 

belief are great motivators for success. Suggest someone who would be a good match for a 

particular task. 

Explain why a person was selected for a task. Set goals and a timeline mutually. Clearly define 

expectations. Give accurate and honest feedback. Do not look over someone’s shoulder or 

take back parts of their assignment before they have had a chance to do it. Managing an 

alumni club is a big job, but if leaders optimize the use of resources, it can be a rewarding 

experience for everyone! 

Leadership Succession 

A guide to organizational transition 

It can be very difficult for clubs to maintain significant levels of institutional memory when 

leadership positions change. When a volunteer who is exceptionally passionate about the club 

moves on and doesn’t leave a successor who has the time, energy, or organizational skills to 

maintain the club, it can be detrimental to the productivity of the club. This section will give 

you some useful tips on how to pass on information successfully to facilitate a transition before 

you leave. 


Club leaders should create a working binder that can be passed on to a successor. Creating 

a binder early will give new leaders a head start on learning club history, event planning, and 

tools of the trade. If worked on throughout the year, it won’t be difficult to pull everything 

together in the final weeks before stepping down. The following information should be shared 

with your successor face-to-face if possible: 

• Contact list of other officers 

• Contact list for the alumni office and other campus officials 

• Contact list of venues and outside organizations 

• Calendar of upcoming events 

• Meeting agendas and minutes 

• Copies of past annual reports 

• Financial records 

• Historical records, position descriptions, and goals 

The transition process should be started early so the club always has a plan should a leader 

decide to leave. Identify emerging volunteers at events and encourage them to attend 

future board meetings. Give emerging volunteers a sense of ownership and investment by 

encouraging them to take on responsibility and implement their own ideas. Encourage these 

potential leaders through personal outreach; delegate responsibility to them, share benefits of 

leadership, clarify job descriptions, and model leadership style. Introduce potential leaders to 

staff members who have been helpful and whom they should get to know. 

The Alumni Website 

www.colgatealumni.org 

Visit the Colgate alumni online community at www.colgatealumni.org. Look up friends and 

classmates in the alumni directory, create a profile, post a resume, and read the latest campus 

news. Popular sections include reunion, alumni travel programs and gifts, parent resources, 

current capital projects, and fundraising initiatives. 

Colgate is the 

66 th oldest 

college in 

the US 

Club Pages 

Every club has its own website that includes space for news, useful links, a list of club officers, 

a calendar of upcoming events, photo albums, and message boards. Pages can be edited by 

Alumni Affairs staff. Please contact us if you would like more information or would like to 

change your club page. It is helpful for each club president to send a welcome message and 

photo characterizing the club area to be added to the club page as well. 


Finances 

Income, payment and reimbursements, tax-exempt status 

Each club should be financially self-sufficient. Events should be planned on a break-even 

basis or subsidized by an existing treasury. THE ALUMNI OFFICE CANNOT SUBSIDIZE 

EVENTS. When planning an event, keep the following costs in mind: room fee, tickets, 

audio/visual equipment, set-up and clean-up charges, refreshments (food, bartenders, liquor 

license). Also, ask if a deposit is required. A member of the Office of Alumni Affairs can put 

the deposit on his/her corporate credit card, and then the club will reimburse the office after 

the event is over and fees have been collected from the attendees. 

Contact the Office of Alumni Affairs to set up an account on campus or check a current 

balance. If you are interested in starting a club scholarship fund, please contact the 

Stewardship Office at 315-228-6009. 

Income 

The club is responsible for establishing and maintaining a treasury which is available to support 

club functions. This may be accomplished by adding a small per-person charge over cost or 

through the collection of voluntary dues (often $13 per alumnus/a, although some clubs have 

reduced rates for young alums, retirees and Colgate couples). 

ALL CLUB ACCOUNTS MUST BE HELD ON CAMPUS. This reduces the confusion 

that results from volunteer turnover. It also allows clubs to take advantage of Colgate as a 

non-profit organization. All checks should be made out to the club, not to an individual. Any 

cash or checks collected for an event or dues should be sent to the Office of Alumni Affairs for 

deposit in your club account. 

Alumni may ask why they should pay dues to the club when they already make a gift to the 

university. Colgate appreciates the generosity of its alumni and invests these contributions 

in the university, including financial aid, faculty and curriculum development, information 

technology, libraries, study groups, student research, and facilities. Voluntary dues to the 

alumni club help defray the cost of local events, which give alumni an opportunity to stay in 

contact with each other and spread Colgate’s message. 

Payment and Reimbursements 

There are a few options available to help pay for an event: 

• Dutch-treat – Each person pays their own way for food, beverages, tickets, etc. 

• Pay for the event personally, save the receipts, and mail them to the Alumni Office for 

reimbursement. The money will be taken from the club account held at Colgate. NO 

RECEIPT, NO CASH. 

Tax-Exempt Status 

The following states are tax-exempt: Florida, Massachusetts (food only), Michigan, New Jersey, 

New York, and Pennsylvania (food only). Please contact the Office of Alumni Affairs every 

time a tax exempt form is needed. Please allow at least one week to process the request. 


Annual Planning Process 

Looking ahead and preserving club history 

Each spring, club presidents fill out an annual club report that list club officers, documents 

past successes and challenges, and outlines potential events for the coming year. This 

document is the first step in the annual planning process in which volunteers meet with the 

staff contact in the Office of Alumni Affairs to discuss a calendar of events for the coming year, 

brainstorm ideas for recruiting new volunteers, and consider a succession plan if necessary. 

Since many club records are kept at the local level and there is a great deal of volunteer 

turnover, this document provides the Office of Alumni Affairs with a consistent history of the 

clubs over time. In addition, the District Clubs Committee of the Alumni Council will meet 

in April and will use these reports to recognize clubs and volunteers for their achievements over 

the past year. 

Club Awards 

Recognizing clubs and volunteers 

Each April, the District Clubs Committee of the Alumni Council recognizes clubs and 

volunteers for their achievements with the local alumni clubs based on the submitted annual 

report. While the committee cannot award everyone, it is hoped that these awards will 

generate excitement, energy, and support for all clubs. 

The Carlton O. Miller ’14 Memorial Cup for Outstanding District Club Achievement 

This award is named in honor of Carlton O. Miller ’14, who served as the executive secretary 

to the Alumni Council from 1942 – 1960. This award was created in 1966 and first presented 

by the Class of 1950 to the Colgate Club of Central New York (Syracuse) in memory of 

Carlton O. Miller. The award honors the club that has been the “most effective” during the 

year. 

The first 

Adam and Eve 

swans were 

given to 

Colgate in 1929 

The Harold S. Merrell ’42 Memorial Award for Most Improved District Club Achievement 

This award was created in 1980 in memory of Harold S. Merrell ’42, who served as the 

executive secretary to the Alumni Council from 1967 – 1974. This award honors the club that 

has demonstrated the “greatest improvement” during the year. 

The District Clubs Committee may select up to five awards, one each in the ’Gateway 

(1-150 alumni), Small (151-300 alumni), Medium (301-600 alumni), Large (601-1000 

alumni), and Metropolitan (1001+ alumni) categories for both the awards listed above. It 

should be noted that an award will only be presented if there is a worthy recipient. 

Special Recognition Awards 

These awards were created in 1986 to honor outstanding individual club programs or projects. 

There is no limit on the number of special recognition awards that can be presented each year. 

Awards have been presented for the following: Leadership in Community Service, Sustained 

Excellence, Innovative Programming, Revitalization Efforts, Scholarship Achievement, 

Admissions, and other areas. 


District Clubs Award for Distinguished Individuals 

This award was established April 29, 2000 to recognize the achievements of individual club 

volunteers who display outstanding efforts, initiative, innovation and commitment to district 

club activities. It should be noted that an award will only be presented if there is a worthy 

recipient. Typically, one award is presented each year. 

To view past winners, go to www.colgatealumni.org 

Event Planning 

Everything to plan a successful club event 

Want to plan a club event but don’t know where to start Don’t panic. Break the event into 

smaller pieces and work on each task. Be sure to ask for help from other volunteers and the 

Office of Alumni Affairs. For starters, here are a few questions that should be answered. 

Who is the intended audience 

Alumni and parents, only alumni, or only certain class years (for example, last 10 years) 

Does the type of event or the venue limit the size of the audience Also consider parking, 

accessibility, and any limitations (dress code for example) when selecting a venue. 

When do you want to hold this event 

Be sure to have enough time to make all of the necessary arrangements and give alumni plenty 

of notice. Keep several dates in mind in case the venue is previously booked. Also check to 

make sure that it does not conflict with another Colgate event, religious or federal holiday, or 

school vacation. Many program planners find it helpful to plan backwards, starting at the day 

of the event, filling in details, until arriving at today’s date. 

For example: 

10 weeks before event: determine format (theme, activities, etc.), invite any guest 

speakers, select venue 

8 weeks before event: confirm date with speaker and venue, submit details to Office of 

Alumni Affairs to draft invitation 

6 weeks before event: mail invitations, recruit volunteers to assist on the day of the event 

3 weeks before event: phone and e-mail tree to extend personal invitation 

2 weeks before event: confirm speaker’s transportation needs, purchase thank you gift, 

confirm A/V and catering needs with venue 

How will you pay for it 

Is there money in the club account Will alumni pay their own way Consider what costs a 

ticket fee will cover (food and beverage, gratuity, room fee, tickets, equipment rental, etc.) and 

what is reasonable to expect people to pay. 


How will you promote it 

Printed invitation, e-mail only, or a combination When planning an event, always keep in 

mind that the Office of Alumni Affairs will need details at least 6-8 weeks prior to the event 

to prepare and mail invitations. A flyer needs to be designed and approved by the office and 

the volunteer before being sent to Printing and Mail Services. The Office of Alumni Affairs 

can also send an e-mail reminder about the event but must have at least 48 hours notice. 

In addition, because some alumni may receive other e-mails from Colgate (for example, 

fundraising, admissions, career services, news updates), clubs are asked to only send one e-mail 

per month. Please plan accordingly and combine announcements when possible. Also, make 

phone calls to alumni to encourage attendance. The personal touch really helps! 

After the Event 

Don’t forget that responsibilities don’t end the day of the event. Send thank you notes to 

speakers and anyone who made the event possible, and evaluate the event to review past 

success and determine ways it can be improved in the future. Make sure to make a record 

of individuals who may work on this event the next time. Please share these notes with the 

alumni office. Next, send an attendance list to the Office of Alumni Affairs for centralized 

record-keeping immediately following the event. This is mandatory! Then, congratulate the 

club on a job well done! 

Event Photos 

Capturing the spirit of events 

The Colgate Scene occasionally accepts submissions of photos of alumni and friends 

participating in various activities — whether a regional club event, volunteer project, alumni 

travel program trip, or other alumni-related event. Unfortunately, because of space limitations, 

not every photo received is able to be published. 

The first 

Maroon 

Citations were 

awarded 

in 1955 

In order to achieve a quality reproduction of any photo, certain standards of content and 

technique need to be met. Some photos that cannot be printed can be posted on the web, on 

club or class websites; the Scene staff coordinates with the alumni office in those cases. 

Photography Tips 

• Candid shots and activities like service projects, cultural or baseball outings, etc., are more 

interesting than posed group shots or banquets and receptions. 

• Less is more. Faces will be much more recognizable in a shot of a few people than a large 

group. 

• Get close: Fill the frame with the subject. 

• Take more than one picture of the subject so the best one will be submitted. 

• Photos taken in a scenic setting often work well. Look for a background that is recognizable 

or otherwise helps convey a sense of “place.” Take advantage of natural lighting to avoid 

harsh flash and red eyes. 


• Consider the lighting of the surroundings. Are people’s faces in shadow Is the area behind 

the subjects brighter than they are This can happen indoors, for example, when the 

people being photographed have a window behind them, or outdoors when the people 

are standing in the shadows on a sunny day, or the bright sun is washing out faces and 

background. 

• It’s great if someone is wearing a Colgate item, such as a hat, t-shirt, or sweatshirt, but don’t 

overdo it. 

Avoid the following kinds of photos, which rarely have enough visual interest to capture the 

reader’s attention: 

• “Grip-and-grins” (two people shaking hands and smiling) 

• Posed group photos 

• Check or plaque presentations 

• People holding beer cans or wine glasses (unless it’s integral to the event, such as a wine 

tasting) 

• People eating (these tend not to be very flattering). 

Submission Instructions 

Digital photos: send .jpg files (must be at least 300 d.p.i. when sized to 5”x7”) to sceneletters@ 

mail.colgate.edu. Send prints (no color printer printouts or photocopies) to: 

Colgate Scene, 13 Oak Drive, Hamilton, NY 13346. 

Please note: selection of photos for publication is at the discretion of the editors. They work 

pretty far ahead, so a photo received today might not turn up in print for four to six months. 

Please let the editors know if photos need to be returned. 

Sample Event Calendars 

Suggestions for Gateway, Small, Medium, Large, and Metropolitan clubs 

There is no right or wrong number of events that a club should plan every year. Success is 

measured by quality, not quantity. However, here are a few general guidelines to help a club 

stay on track. 

Gateway (up to 150 alumni) 

4 events with a minimum of 10 people at the event 

Sample events calendar: Send-off party (July/August), televised football (October/November), 

luncheon (February/March), Table for 13 (April/May) 

Small (151-300 alumni) 

5 events with a minimum of 15 people at each event 


luncheon (January, invite students), Table for 13 (April), sporting event (June) 


Medium (301-600 alumni) 



luncheon (January, invite students), faculty speaker (March), Table for 13 (May), sporting 

event (June) 

Large (601-1000 alumni) 


Sample events calendar: Send-off party (July), cultural/education event (August), televised 

football (October/November), volunteer event (December), student event (January), faculty 

speaker (March), Table for 13 (May), sporting event (June) 

Metropolitan (over 1000 alumni) 

12 events (1 per month) with a minimum of 30 people at each event 

Sample events calendar: Send-off party (July), sporting event (August), cultural/educational 

event (September), televised football (October), volunteer event (November), holiday party 

(December), student event (January), Table for 13 (February), faculty speaker (March), social 

event (April), volunteer event (May), sporting event (June) 

These are just a sampling of possible events. Please be creative about organizing events and 

try events unique to the area. Seek convenient settings and rotate event locations within your 

club area. Offer a variety of events to attract different groups of alumni. Reach out to recent 

alumni as well as others who have not attended an event in the past. 

Take advantage of the club area utilizing unique events, locations or activities. Offer door 

prizes, set up a phone tree, and ask the Office of Alumni Affairs to send reminder e-mails to 

increase attendance. By offering a variety of activities, the club has a better chance of attracting 

many different alumni. These attendees could be future officers and board members. 

The first 

Colgate Scene 

was issued in 

July of 1971 

Again, success is not measured solely on the number of events; rather, seek quality, high attendance, 

and a sense of connection between alumni and with Colgate. Please do not feel constricted by 

these guidelines; many clubs will choose to do more events, and feel free to substitute one kind of 

event for another. You know what kinds of events are popular with local alumni. This list is simply 

designed to provide a consistent set of guidelines for clubs of similar size. 

Send-Off Parties 

Welcoming new students and their families to Colgate 

Send-off parties are the signature event for many clubs. They provide an opportunity for 

alumni to interact with current and incoming students and their families prior to the new 

school year. 


Date 

The event should take place during the last 2 weeks of July or the first week in August. This 

is the earliest that the Office of Alumni Affairs can prepare invitations following Reunion, and 

many students return to campus beginning the second week of August for athletics, volunteer 

service, Wilderness Adventure, and pre-Orientation programs. 

Location 

Simple is better! Backyard picnics, park gatherings, and ice cream sundae parties are easy to 

plan and can be accomplished with minimal budgets. It is recommended that the club try to 

find a host who offers the use of their home. 

Cost 

Current and incoming students and their families are the guests of honor and are invited at 

no charge. The Office of Alumni Affairs will reimburse the alumni club $10 per student and 

family member. This applies to events not generously underwritten by an alumnus/a, parent, 

or company. In order to receive this reimbursement, volunteers must submit receipts and an 

attendance list. If the cost of the event is more than $10 per person, the club should plan to 

make up the difference. The recommended cost for alumni and guests is $5-$13 per person. 

Alumni and parents may choose to host the event in exchange for gift-in-kind credit. 

Again, receipts and an attendance list are required in order to be eligible for this credit. 

Refreshments 

Arrange for a variety of snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. It is preferred that alcohol not be 

served but it is ultimately the club’s discretion. Light refreshments and hors d’oeuvres are all 

that is necessary. 

Invitations 

Details must be sent to the Office of Alumni Affairs no later than mid-May. At minimum, 

invitations will be extended to incoming students and their families as well as members of the 

Board of Trustees, the Alumni Corporation Board of Directors, the Society of Families Steering 

Committee, alumni club officers, and the local Alumni Admission Chair. Current students and 

their families are a great asset to have at the party. Each group can answer questions of their 

respective peers. Please use discretion when deciding on which alumni to invite depending on 

the size of the venue and the size of the club. Except for the largest clubs, it is customary to invite 

all alumni, current students, and their families. 

Program 

Greet guests as they arrive and provide them with nametags and RSVP list. After social time, 

introduce club officers and campus guests, introduce the new students and their families, and 

thank the host. 

Supplies 

The Office of Alumni Affairs will provide the club with a list of new and current students, 

nametags, Colgate napkins, car stickers for incoming students, and block Cs. 


Social Events 

Suggested events and planning tips 

Suggested Events 

Happy hours/pub nights • Comedy club • Alumni band concert • Table for 13 • Colgate 

Thirteen/Swinging ’Gates concert • Potluck dinner • Business card exchange • Assemble care 

packages for area students • Holiday party (please be mindful of different faiths) • Local group 

tours (visit attractions in the area) • Joint activity with alumni clubs from other schools • River/ 

harbor cruise • Brewery tour • Concert in the park 

Planning tips 

• Is there a room fee If there are multiple floors or a separate room, will alumni be able to 

locate the event Is it necessary to distinguish alumni from the general public 

• When ordering hors d’oeuvres, please provide vegetarian options. Will the bar offer 

anything special to Colgate alumni 

• Recognize that some social events will appeal to generally younger alumni and may not be 

kid-friendly. 

• The Colgate Thirteen and Swinging ’Gates may require housing. 

• Contact the organization for tickets. What are the policies for group sales Is there a 

discount Is it possible to return unsold tickets or acquire additional tickets When is the 

last date to return tickets or acquire additional tickets What is the policy for last-minute 

reservations 

• Will a volunteer take RSVPs or will the ticket office How will tickets be distributed to 

alumni Will they be mailed or is there a location to meet prior to the event Is it possible 

to pick tickets up at Will Call 

• The club should be prepared to cover the cost of no-shows and tickets that are not 

purchased by alumni. 

The Maroon 

News is the 

oldest college 

weekly in the 

country 

Family Events 



Trip to the zoo, circus, or amusement park • Children’s museum or aquarium • Picnic or BBQ 

with games • Beach party • Apple picking • Ice skating • Mini-golf • Bowling 

Planning Tips 




reservations 







• Is it necessary to distinguish members of the group from the general public 

• Be mindful of start and end times; it is generally not a good idea to start a family event 

after 6:00 p.m. Weekends are recommended for family events. 

Educational/Cultural Events 



Attend the symphony or opera • Tour an art gallery • Visit a historical site • Attend a play or 

musical • Wine tasting • Luncheon or dinner with guest speaker (staff, faculty, coach, local 

alumnus/a or personality) 

Planning Tips 

• Location, date and time are usually determined by the venue, exhibit, or performance. 




reservations 







• May need permission to use image for invitation (art work for example). 

• When selecting a speaker or topic, please have several choices in mind prior to contacting 

the Office of Alumni Affairs. This will save both the office and the club time in the event 

that the first choice is not available. Please do not contact faculty directly. The staff 

contact in Alumni Affairs will extend the invitation for a faculty or staff person to speak. 

• When choosing a date, please consider the university calendar (professors are generally 

unavailable at the beginning and end of semesters). 

• Determine location and select an appropriate, quiet room for the speaker (a separate room 

is preferred). Inquire in advance as to the maximum capacity of the room. 

• As a courtesy to the speaker, offer to meet him/her at airport or hotel, take them to the 

meeting place, and return to the hotel/airport. The club should also cover the speaker’s 

meal and entrance fee (unless covered by the Office of Alumni Affairs). 

• Allow 30 minutes for social time (followed by dinner if that is the format), 3-5 minutes for 

welcoming remarks, 15-20 minutes for the presentation, and 5 minutes for Q&A. If the 

event is a dinner, please allow 30 minutes for social time followed by dinner, 3-5 minutes 

for welcoming remarks, 15-20 minutes for the presentation, 5 minutes for Q&A, and 5 

minutes to thank the speaker, present them with a gift, and any announcements. 


• The Club President or event coordinator should introduce the speaker. The Office 

of Alumni Affairs will provide biographic information on the speaker. Allow time for 

questions and answers at the end of the presentation. Be prepared with a few questions to 

keep the discussion flowing. 

• Test audio/visual equipment with guest speaker before the group arrives. 

• After the event, send a thank you note to the speaker. 

Community Service Events 



Habitat for Humanity project • Cook and serve meals at a local food bank • Participate in a 

city-wide service day • Clean-up a local park or playground • Plant a garden in a public place • 

Boo at the Zoo • Bring canned food items or school supplies to an event • Blood drive 

Planning Tips 

• All “Colgate Cares” events should be service oriented, requiring alumni to give of their 

time, not their money. They may not be fundraising or political events. 

• Events should be discussed in advance with the Office of Alumni Affairs to ensure they 

meet these guidelines. 

• There are, on occasion, opportunities to partner with the Center for Outreach, 

Volunteerism and Education (COVE) and student projects. Please contact the Office of 

Alumni Affairs for assistance. 


Sporting Events 


Reserve a block of tickets for a professional or minor league game • Watch Colgate teams 

play at local colleges • Cheer on the Raiders via a live broadcast • Softball game with another 

alumni club • Outdoor sports (skiing, tennis, day hike, kayaking, biking) • Golf outing • Event 

with alumni professional athletes 

Planning Tips for Live Events 

• Contact the organization for tickets. What are the policies for group sales Is it possible to 

return unsold tickets or acquire additional tickets When is the last date to return tickets 

or acquire additional tickets What is the policy for last-minute reservations 







The original 

13 men 

who founded 

Colgate were: 

Jonathan Olmstead 

Nathaniel Kendrick 

Daniel Hascall 

Joel Clark 

Charles Hall 

Samuel Payn 

Elisha Payne 

John Bostwick 

Thomas Cox 

Samuel Osgood 

Amos Kingsley 

Peter P. Roots 

Robert Power 


Planning Tips for Televised Athletics 

• The Office of Alumni Affairs will alert all club presidents to any nationally televised 

Colgate games. 

• Contact the venue to see if they have access to the broadcast station. 

• Reserve a room/section for the event, keeping costs in mind. Will the bar/restaurant offer 

anything special to Colgate alumni Should the club provide food or will this be a Dutchtreat 

event 

• PLEASE NOTE: Televised games cannot be guaranteed. Satellite providers may choose to 

feature a different game. The venue does not have any control in this matter. 


Annual Fund 

The Annual Fund is a part of the Institutional Advancement division at Colgate and helps raise over 

$10 million a year to support Colgate’s operating budget. 

In this section you will learn what the Annual Fund is and how it helps Colgate on a day to day basis. 

You will also find a tip sheet about making solicitation calls and an instructional page about how to 

login to the volunteer web page to access valuable information. 

The Annual Fund Professional Staff 

Darcy Nolan Ainslie Ellis ’00 

Director of the Annual Fund 

Leadership Gifts Officer 

Manages classes of 1931-1952 (315) 228-6932 

(315) 228-7168 aiellis@colgate.edu 

danolan@colgate.edu 

Kristin Loop 

Sara Groh 

Associate Director of the Annual Fund 

Associate Director of the Annual Fund 

Manages classes of 1953-1963 & 1982-1989 Manages classes of 1974-1981 & 1990-1998 

(315) 228-7938 (315) 228-6134 

kloop@colgate.edu 

sgroh@colgate.edu 

Lindsey Hoham ’05 Michael Tone ’07 

Assistant Director of the Annual Fund 

Annual Fund Coordinator 

Manages classes of 1964-1973 & Phonathon 

Manages classes of 1999-2009 & Senior Class Gift 

(315) 228-7438 (315) 228-7037 

lhoham@colgate.edu 

mtone@colgate.edu 

The Annual Fund Support Staff: 

Pat Kochan 

Patty Staskowski 

Assistant to the Director of the Annual Fund 


Reports to Darcy Nolan 

Reports to Kristin Loop & Sara Groh 

(315) 228-7724 (315) 228-7412 

pkochan@colgate.edu 

pstaskowski@colgate.edu 

Kim Manner 


Reports to Ainslie Ellis, Lindsey Hoham & Michael Tone 

(315) 228-7175 

kmanner@colgate.edu 

Table of Contents for Annual Fund section 

What is the Annual Fund .....................................................................................34 

Gift Chair & Class Agent Job Description.................................................................35 

Making a Successful Phone Call ...........................................................................36 

Instructions For Class Gift Committee Web Page....................................................37 


What Is The Annual Fund 

The Colgate Annual Fund, through the consistent generosity of the entire Colgate community, 

provides the university with vital resources that help us sustain the excellence of the Colgate 

experience, remove financial barriers to enrollment, and promote innovative programming 

across campus. 

The Annual Fund is comprised of the Unrestricted Annual Fund and the Restricted Annual 

Fund. 

Colgate’s greatest need is the Unrestricted Annual Fund. Unrestricted gifts provide funding 

where it is needed the most. These funds provide the necessary budget relief to ensure a 

balanced institutional budget. Unrestricted funds may finance a new innovative program, 

expand current programs, or meet unexpected budget needs. 

The Restricted Annual Fund is just that - gifts that are restricted to one of six specific 

designations: financial aid, academic programs, study abroad programs, the library, the arts, 

and athletics. 

Why Is Participation Important 

Every Gift Counts! 

Every gift really does make a difference! In fiscal year 2008, 6,449 alumni made a gift to the 

Annual Fund of $100 or less for a grand total of $364,577. This could fund approximately 13 

Colgate financial aid scholarships. 

It comes down to this – Colgate needs support this year and every year to maintain its standard of 

excellence. 

Our alumni participation rate over the past few years has averaged in the low 50s. Most 

institutions have an alumni giving rate of 30% while the top (Williams, Amherst, Davidson) 

have participation rates in the low 60s. Participation demonstrates satisfaction in the value of 

the education and belief and support in the university. 


Gift Chair & Class Agent Job Description 

Purpose 

The Gift Committee is made up of dedicated members of the class who assist in the solicitation 

of the class gift. Committee members consist of a Chair(s), Presidents’ Club Chair(s), and Class 

Agents. The committee requires strong volunteer leadership, careful planning, and hard work. 

A successful class gift program requires committee members to concentrate on the personal 

solicitation of classmates in an effort to raise the bar for class fundraising. Committee 

members begin making contact with classmates in the fall of each fiscal year. 

Time Commitment 

15 - 20 hours for the year 

Number of Solicitations Per Fiscal Year 

Average of 15-20 solicitations per year 

Summary of Committee Responsibilities 

• Personally solicit ten to fifteen classmates to encourage participation in the class gift. (all) 

• Share news and updates from campus and be available to answer any questions from your 

classmates on Colgate related issues. (all) 

• Inform the Annual Fund Office of any pledges/commitments received; address changes, or 

any other new information. (all) 

• Participate in conference calls as appropriate. (all) 

• Make a personally meaningful (if possible a “stretch”) gift. (all) 

• If in a reunion year, make every effort to attend reunion. (all) 

• Oversee the gift committee. (Gift Chair) 

• Assist the Annual Fund staff in recruiting committee members. (Gift Chair) 

• Participate in screening the class for leadership donors. (Gift Chair) 

• Preside over all committee conference calls. (Gift Chair) 

• Maintain regular communication with both committee members and the Annual Fund 

staff. (Gift Chair) 

Hascall Hall 

(built in 1885) 

is on the 

National 

Registry of 

Historic places 


Making A Successful Phone Call 

Here are some common objections that you may face on the phone. 

Unspecified Objections: “I am not interested.” 

• Ask why. 

• Are they unhappy with the university Help reconnect them to Colgate. 

• Your job is to help reignite his/her excitement about Colgate. 

• Give them an alternative reason to give to Colgate 

Financial Objections: “I can’t afford to give because of...” 

• Be understanding. 

• Emphasize the importance of participation. 

• Encourage credit card installment gifts. 

• Explain that smaller gifts given by many people make an even greater impact. 

Other issues: 

“I am mad at Colgate because…” 

• Ask why. 

• Forward his/her concern to your Annual Fund staff liaison and ask them to consider 

restricting their gift to something important to them. 

“My child wasn’t accepted at Colgate.” 

• Be sympathetic to their disappointment. 

• Express that you hope that he/she still believes that the institution is worthy of their support. 

“Why should I give to Colgate rather than give to other non-profits” 

• Liberal Arts colleges educate students to think ethically, entrepreneurially, and globally. 

• Each year Colgate will send out over 700 seniors who will lead tomorrow and shape the future. 

Other Questions/Concerns: If a classmate has a specific question or concern that you cannot 

resolve: 

• Make a detailed note of the classmate’s question, concern, or message. 

• Ask how they would like to be contacted (via email or phone). 

• Have Annual Fund liaison contact the classmate. 

If there is a question you cannot answer, be honest – don’t bluff! 

Your staff liaison can follow up with their concerns. 


Instructions For Class Gift Committee Web Page 

With the launching of Colgate’s new alumni website last year, we had the opportunity to 

create a site for our class gift committee volunteers. You will be able to access your current 

assignments, class goals and progress to date, class gift history, gift committee rosters, and 

Colgate’s volunteer handbook. 

To access this site, use the following link. www.colgatealumni.org/classgifts 

You will need to log in to access your current assignments. To log in you will need a user name 

and password. Colgate will send your user name and password this fall. 

We hope you will enjoy using this site and that it makes your work easier and more efficient. 

94% of the 

Class of 2008 

contributed to 

their senior 

class gift 




Members of the Presidents’ Club — Colgate’s leadership gift society — march at the forefront of the 

university’s journey to excellence in liberal arts education. Their investments demonstrate the highest 

level of commitment and lay the foundation for our success. 

In return for their support, Presidents’ Club members enjoy: 

• Invitations to special events like our annual reception and auction 

• Regular, exclusive, personalized communications like PC Newsflash, our online newsletter 

• A seat at presidential roundtable conversations to discuss Colgate’s future 

• Special attention during Reunion and Family weekends 

• Opportunities to interact with students through career services 

For more information about the Presidents’ Club contact: 

Patricia Caprio 

Director of Leadership Giving 

Colgate University 

13 Oak Drive 


315-228-7442 

pcaprio@colgate.edu 

Mark Your Calendar 

Presidents’ Club Reception and Auction is 

Friday, April 24, 2009 at Cipriani- 42nd Street in New York City. 

Table of Contents for Presidents’ Club section 

Presidents’ Club Membership Committe..................................................................40 

Presidents’ Club Class Chair Job Description..........................................................41 

Giving Levels............................................................................................................42 

Volunteer Web Page ...............................................................................................43 

Sample Prospect Card ...........................................................................................44 


Presidents’ Club Membership Committee 

2008-2009 Fund Year 

Tom McGarrity ’79 P’10 Chair 

Kim Avison Huffard ’87 Vice Chair 

Term Ending – May 2009 

John M. Bonhomme ’00 

Alexander Cohen ’06 

Peggy Ellis P’10 

Katie Finnegan ’05 

Elizabeth Orbe Fischer ’82 

Arthur Irwin ’63 

Matthew E. Kaplan ’93 

C. Thomas Kunz ’72 

Heather E. Lambert ’03 

Jane Hylis Lewis ’77 

Thomas Lynett ’79 

Gordon P. Miller ’56 

Peter Nicoletti ’78 

Kevin Osborn ’85 

Robert Parr ’74 

Robert B. Raiber ’68 

Kevin Rusch ’85 

Thomas Seligson ’72 

Lindsay L. Weinschenk ’01 


Patricia Apelian Aitken ’76 

Greg Arms ’78 

Jeff Becker P’02 

Terry Connolly ’62 

Linda Cummings Murphy ’81 

John Finn ’02 

Bruce and Jill Goodman P’11 

Thomas McGarrity ’79 

Lauren Nugent ’02 

Michael Remey ’98 


Recruitment Effort in Progress 

Sally J. Dessloch ’79 

Dane P. Fraser ’01 

Tom Mac Cowatt ’85 

Ryan Molloy ’05 

Robert Seaberg ’69 

Amy Satin Spinelli ’93 


Presidents’ Club Class Chair Job Description 

Five year (renewable) term 

Job Description 

The Presidents’ Club Class Chair will lead a group of volunteers in the planning and solicitation of 

Presidents’ Club level donations from classmates. This volunteer will be a member of the Class Gift 

Committee and will work in coordination and conjunction with committee members. Concentration 

on personal solicitations of Presidents’ Club level gifts will be the prime responsibility. This position 

requires strong leadership, knowledge of classmates, and careful planning and execution. Hopefully, 

you will feel a great sense of pride in helping Colgate reach our financial objectives and become the 

best liberal arts university in the nation. 

Responsibilities 

• Make a minimum of a Presidents’ Club level donation to the college. 

• Sit on Class Gift Committee and help set goals and objectives. Work in tandem with class 

gift chair. Your class may have more than one Presidents’ Club Class Chair. 

• Help define a fundraising strategy for the class that maximizes dollar potential and alumni 

participation. 

• Help identify classmates who can make leadership contributions. 

• Author solicitation letters to classmates. 

• Contact (call or email) 8 to 10 potential Presidents’ Club members. 

• Update the Director of the Presidents’ Club with pertinent information. 

Timetable 

August - 

October - 

November - 

December - 

January - 

March - 

May - 

Annual Report of Donors available on-line 

Conference call with Class Gift Committee members to set goals and objectives 

Volunteer Packets mailed 

Presidents’ Club Directory is mailed as first solicitation 

Class calling period begins 

New York City Presidents’ Club Phonathon 

Conference call with Class Gift Committee 

Year-end appeal (securities brochure) 

Colgate Calendar mailed 

Phone calls and emails to prospects 

Holiday cards mailed 

Conference call with Class Gift Committee 

Spring Solicitation mailed 

Final Solicitation/phone calls/email cleanup 

Presidents’ Club Reception and Auction – Friday, April 24, 2009 

Cipriani’s – 42 nd Street, New York City 

Reunion Breakfast – Saturday, May 30, 2009 

Seven Oaks 

golf course is 

rated by 

Golf Digest 

as one of the 

top five college 

courses in the 

country 

Regional Presidents’ Club Events 

10/17/08 in Chicago 11/20/08 in Boston 1/28/09 on Long Island 

2/18/09 in Washington, D.C. 3/09/09 in San Francisco 

Young Alumni Presidents’ Club Events 

9/26/08 in New York City Additional dates to be announced 


Presidents’ Club Giving Levels 

June 1, 2008 – May 31, 2009 


$500,000 Member in Perpetuity 

(10-year cumulative cash or lifetime gifts) 

$250,000 Founder 

$100,000 Benefactor 

$50,000 Patron 

$25,000 Council 

$10,000 Fellow 

$5,000 Partner 

$2,000 Member (Classes of ’59-’99) 

$1,000 Member (Classes of ’25-’58) 

Graduated Levels 

$900 Class of 2000 

$800 Class of 2001 

$700 Class of 2002 

$600 Class of 2003 

$500 Class of 2004 

$400 Class of 2005 

$300 Class of 2006 

$200 Class of 2007 

$100 Class of 2008 

$100 Class of 2009 


Presidents’ Club Volunteer Web Page 

With the launching of Colgate’s new alumni website last year, we had the opportunity to 

create a site for our volunteers. To save time, energy and money, we designed a page just for 

Presidents’ Club volunteers. You will be able to access all the reports on-line and have up-todate 

information about your prospects. A sample of the page is attached. 

The instructions are simple: 

1. Go to the website: www.colgatealumni.org/presclubvolunteers 

2. If you have already used the site, please use your existing user name and password. If 

this is your first time and you need assistance or have forgotten your password, please call 

315-228-7489. 

3. Under “Volunteer Tools” you will find your current prospect assignments (report card) and 

the two standard monthly reports and other pertinent material. 

In the 2008 

fiscal year, 

Colgate 

raised over 

$39 million 

from 46% of 

its alumni, 

parents, friends, 

and corporations 

and foundations 

SAMPLE PROSPECT CARD 


Sample Prospect Card 

Sample Prospect Card 

Complete one of the 

following before mailing 

____ Thank you for your pledge/gift of $___________ 

to_____________________________ 

____ In the past, you made a gift of $______________ 

Mr. Colgate Raider 

____ I tried to reach you, but you were not at home. I 

13 Oak Drive hope you will consider supporting Colgate this year. 


Sign card here ____________________________________________ 

Volunteer Name 

Tear off top sheet and 

mail to your prospect 

In this space below your signature is a good 

location to add a personal thank you note! 

Presidents’ Club - Volunteer Name 

Prospect: Colgate Raider Class: 1985 Major: Music Club: NYC 

ID: 000738467 Telephone: (H) 315-555-1212 

Address: 13 Oak Drive (B) 315-555-1212 

Hamilton, NY 13346 Cell: (C) 315-555-1212 

E-Mail: 

Space for tracking calls 

Raider@Colgate.edu 

Call Record 

Title: Mascot 

Attempt Dates 

Results 

1.___________ 

_________Wrong No. 

Business: Colgate University 

2.___________ 

_________Disconnected 

3.___________ 

_________Did not Reach 

or no answer 

Maiden: 

Total gifts made this 

Spouse: Betty Raider ‘86 fund/fiscal year 

GIVING HISTORY 

Frat: Delta Upsilon 

Fund Year Unrestricted Restricted Capital Total 

Varsity Sport: Football 2004-2005 $500 $500 $0 $1,000 

2005-2006 $750 $750 $1,000 $2,500 

2006-2007 $0 $0 $5000 $5,000 

Date Last Gift: 5/24/07 Current Fund Year $500 $0 $500 $1,000 

Prospect: Colgate Raider ID: 000738467 Club: NYC 

Pledge $____________ Designation____________________________ Please direct my gift to: 

Alumni club code 

Result: 

_____ Unspecific Pledge _____ Declined _____Already Gave _____Wrong No. 

Credit Card Gift: ____MasterCard ____ Discover 

____Visa 

____American Express 

Card Number:_______________________________________________ 

Amount: $ ______________ Expiration Date: __________ 

Mo/Yr 

Fill in pledge and designation or result information 

When complete, return bottom 2/3 portion to Patio Caprio 

____ Unrestricted Purposes 

____Capital 

Restricted budget purposes: 

____ Academic Programs 

____ The Arts 

____ Athletics 

____ Library 

____ Study Group 

Internal Designate use: Coded which on area(s) banner ______ 

gift is Sent to be to applied gift records ______ 


Parents’ and Grandparents’ Fund 

The Society of Families 

The Colgate Parents’ and Grandparents’ Fund is a collection of gifts, small and large, that allows 

the university to exceed expectations while providing an incredible learning experience to America’s 

brightest undergraduates. Every gift makes an impact, whether it is an investment of $13, a Presidents’ 

Club-level contribution of $2,000, or more. 

Led by co-chairs Ed and Maxine Kerschner P’07, ’09, parents generously contributed more than $4.6 

million in fiscal year 2008 with 45% participation from current parents. Thanks to the leadership of 

Doug ’50 and Sandra Campbell, P’80, ’81, GP ’05, ’08, ’09, ’12 the Grandparents’ Fund raised over 

$1.1 million with 81 donors (alumni grandparents and current grandparents). 

The Society of Families founder, Dr. Campbell, realized in 1954 that, “the university, like most private 

schools, faces a problem since it does not charge sufficient tuition to meet the full cost of education.” 

His statement still holds true today. 

The tuition you pay, though important and substantial, covers only 70 percent of the real cost of 

a Colgate education. We depend on endowment income and annual contributions from parents, 

alumni/ae, foundations, and friends to close the gap. 

The Parents’ and Grandparents’ Fund Staff 

Mari Assaid 

Director, Parents’ and Grandparents’ Fund 

Director, Special Events 

(315) 228-7167 

massaid@colgate.edu 

William LaRuffa 

Leadership Gifts Officer 

(315) 228-6925 

wlaruffa@colgate.edu 

Julie Partigianoni 

Associate Director of the Parents’ and 

Grandparents’ Fund 

(315) 228-6693 

jpartigianoni@colgate.edu 

Heather Payne 


(315) 228-6693 

hepayne@colgate.edu 

Table of Contents for Parents’ Fund section 

Society of Families Steering Committee..................................................................46 

Global Leaders Lecture Series Challenge...............................................................47 

Parents’ Fund Fall Calling Program.........................................................................48 

Making the Call........................................................................................................49 

Parent Hosted Events..............................................................................................50 

Parents’ Fund Website Information..........................................................................51 


Society of Families Steering Committee 

Mission Statement and Responsibility of Members 

Established in 1954, the Steering Committee is a volunteer organization consisting of parents 

and grandparents of current Colgate students, representing all four class years. Members 

are selected annually. Terms of office run from the spring meeting of the committee to the 

following spring meeting. Meetings are held twice yearly on the Colgate campus; in the fall 

during Family Weekend, and on a designated spring weekend. 

Mission Statement 

To enhance and facilitate communications between Colgate and the parent body on topics of 

interest or concern to parents. 

To gather as an advisory cabinet as a resource to the President of the College and to the Dean 

of Students to reflect on and analyze issues and challenges facing Colgate, as well as offer advice 

and counsel to aid the administration as Colgate seeks to become one of the leading liberal arts 

universities of the 21st century. 

To mobilize parent resources in support of the programs and activities at Colgate by supporting 

Colgate with a leadership gift, soliciting financial support from other parents, and hosting a 

parent reception at their home or club. 

Responsibilities of Members 

Make Colgate your philanthropic priority. Support the Parents’ Fund with a leadership gift 

that will make a difference for The Passion for the Climb: The Campaign for Colgate. Your 

gift can be directed to the Unrestricted Parents’ Fund, the Restricted Parents’ Fund, the Global 

Leaders Lecture Series or to one of Colgate’s capital needs. 

Solicit 2-4 families for a Presidents’ Club gift ($2,000 minimum). The fall calling session runs 

from November to December. The Parents’ Fund staff will provide a roster of names along 

with relevant details about each individual. 

Host an event for parents and alumni. Events are generally hosted at someone’s home, club, or 

restaurant. The Parents’ Fund staff will work with you to determine an appropriate format such 

as a cocktail reception, bar-b-que, buffet dinner or sit-down dinner. Speakers from campus are 

available. 

Assist in donor identification and cultivation when appropriate. 

Attend regional events when available. 


The Global Leaders Lecture Series Challenge 

Encouraging Campus Wide Conversations 

The Global Leaders Lecture Series was launched on Colgate Day, Friday, April 13, 2007, 

with the generous support of the Society of Families and the Class of 2007. While expanding 

Colgate’s reputation as a premier center for liberal arts education, the series introduces the 

university community to key figures at the forefront of the human endeavor. It encourages 

campus-wide conversations that further our understanding of what it means to be a leader in 

the 21st century. 

Colgate alumni 

volunteer for 

48 active 

alumni clubs 

located around 

the globe 

The Dali Lama wears a Colgate cap for the 

2008 Global Leaders Lecture Series. 

An anonymous parent donor generously pledged $500,000 to match all gifts to the Global 

Leaders Lecture Series made before December 31, 2008. For every dollar contributed to the 

series, there will be a dollar match, doubling the value of each investment! The fund will allow 

the university to invite world-renowned speakers to campus. The challenge gift — and the 

gifts that meet it — will be instrumental in the success of this lecture series. 


Parents’ Fund Fall Calling Program 

Your Efforts Will Make a Difference 

Thank you for volunteering your time and energy to call other parents this year. Your efforts 

will make a difference and we look forward to working with you. 

Every gift counts toward participation. Participation by a large number of people is the only 

way to achieve our monetary goal. 

Prior to the start of the this year’s Parents’ Fund Calling Program, a solicitation letter from the 

Co-Chairs of the Parents’ Fund, Maxine and Ed Kerschner P’07, ’09, will be mailed to your 

assigned parents. 

Our office will contact you in October to review the fall calling program process. In an effort 

to save on costs and streamline the fall calling program process your assignments will be made 

available online at www.colgatealumni.org/parentcommittee 

In the meantime, please do not hesitate to call if you have any questions or concerns. Your 

suggestions, questions or concerns are most welcome. 

The calling period ends December 31, 2008. 

Once again, thank you! 

A Word About Participation 

Every Gift Counts! 

• Participation gifts show enthusiasm and support for the education Colgate provides. High 

participation signals a sound institution, worthy of additional support. 

• Participating in the Parents’ Fund is an opportunity for parents to tangibly express how 

much they value the education their children are receiving. Each gift signals to other 

parents that Colgate is deserving of their support. 

• The size of gifts may vary, but every gift counts the same for participation. 

• In fiscal year 2008, the Parents’ Fund raised over $4.6 million! All those smaller gifts add 

up to a considerable resource for the university with 30% of families giving to the Parents’ 

Fund. 

• Every gift makes a difference because each one builds participation! 


Making the Call 

Each call is unique, but here is a general outline to follow as you contact your assignments. 

Connect 

Spend some time introducing yourself and talking about Colgate. Take a moment to explain 

that you are a volunteer for the Parents’ Fund Calling Program and are calling other parents to 

encourage their support and talk about the objectives of the Parents’ Fund. Please take notes 

while on the phone with your caller. Note any changes to contact information, result of your 

call, pledge amount and form of payment. These will come in handy when it comes time to 

email your call results to our office. 

Ask for a Gift 

When the time seems right, ask if the parent would consider making a gift to Colgate… “I 

hope that you will consider making a gift of $ (ask amount) to support Colgate.” Using the 

word consider takes the sting out of a direct ask. 

Wait for the Response 

Allow them to consider the ask. Let them respond to you. Resist the urge to break the silence 

and suggest a different amount. If they say: 

“Maybe…” 

Ask: “would you be willing 

to pledge a minimum 

amount 

“Yes, I will Pledge 

$xxx.” 

Thank them for their 

generous support 

“No.” 

Ask: “would you be willing 

to pledge a minimum 

amount of $13.00 

Colgate owns a 

75 million-yearold 

petrified 

dinosaur egg, 

the first owned 

by a college 

If successful, follow steps 

for “Yes, I will pledge 

$xxx.” 

If not... 

Record the pledge amount 

on the pledge card. 

Verify mailing address. 

If successful, follow steps 

for “Yes, I will pledge 

$xxx.” 

If not... 

If they still do not commit, 

thank them for their time 

and remind them of the 

importance of their gift. 

Encourage credit card 

payment for added 

convenience. 

(Visa/MC/Disc/Amex) 

If they still do not commit, 

thank them for their time 

and remind them of the 

importance of their gift. 

Write a personalized note 

on the pledge card . 


of thanks on the pledge 

card and thank them for 

their support. 


on the pledge card . 


Parent Hosted Events 

The type of event is the choice of the host. Events are usually held at someone’s home, club, or 

restaurant. The format can be a cocktail reception, a buffet dinner or a sit-down dinner. 

6 p.m. to 8 p.m. is the most popular time, but other times can work as well. The average 

number of guests is generally around twenty-five. 

Speakers are available but ten weeks notice is needed. Speakers have included President 

Chopp; Charlotte Johnson, Vice President and Dean of the College; David Roach, Athletic 

Director and faculty members. 

The Parents’ Fund office will mail out the invitations (after your approval), follow-up with 

email, letter, and/or calls. You may preview the invitation list of parents and alumni in your 

area. Colgate napkins will be provided and other Colgate paraphernalia (as appropriate). We 

will have a guest count four to five days before the event. A staff member from the Parents’ 

Fund will attend the event and will arrive early to offer assistance. A table to set up name tags 

is appreciated. 

You can receive gift-in-kind credit for the event that will count toward your parent contribution. 

Please let us know if you are able to offer your hospitality and would like to sign up to host an 

event. 


Parents’ Fund Website Information 

With the launching of Colgate’s new Society of Families website, we had the opportunity 

to create a site for our Parents’ Fund Fall Calling Program volunteers. You will be able to 

access your current calling assignments, progress to date, class gift history, parent rosters, and 

Colgate’s volunteer handbook. 

To access this site, use the following link: www.colgatealumni.org/parentcommittee 

You will need to log in to access your current assignments. To log in you will need a user name 

and password. The Parents’ Fund staff will send your initial user name and password this fall. 

We hope you will enjoy using this site and that it makes your work easier and more efficient. 

The stone for 

several of the 

first buildings 

on campus was 

gathered at a 

rock quarry 

located at the 

top of the Hill 


A Fundraiser’s Dictionary 

ALUMNUS - One male graduate of Colgate. 

ALUMNA - One female graduate of Colgate. 

ALUMNI - Two or more males or a group of two or more including both genders. 

ALUMNAE - Two or more females. 

CLASS AGENT - A volunteer who serves Colgate by soliciting gifts to the Annual Fund from his or 

her classmates and is a member of the class gift committee. 

CLASS GIFT - The sum of all gifts given by members of a specific class during a fiscal year. 

DONOR - Anyone who has made a gift to Colgate during the current fiscal year. 

FISCAL YEAR (FY) - Colgate’s fiscal year runs from June 1 through May 31. 

GIFT - Any cash, securities or other contribution for which an official receipt has been (or will be) 

issued. Gifts include payments on pledges. 

GIFT CHAIR - The lead Annual Fund volunteer in a class. The chair organizes and manages the class 

agents. 

LYBUNT (Last Year But Unfortunately Not This year) - A past donor who made a gift in the last fiscal 

year, but not in the current fiscal year. 

PARTICIPATION - The percentage of alumni who make gifts of any amount to Colgate during any 

given year. 

PLEDGE - A written or verbal promise to make a gift to Colgate. 

PRESIDENTS’ CLUB CHAIR - A volunteer who serves Colgate by soliciting gifts of $2,000 and more 

for membership into the Presidents’ Club and is a member of the class gift committee. 

PROSPECT - A classmate, parent, or friend of Colgate who is assigned to a staff member, class agent, 

or volunteer for solicitation. 

SPECIFIC PLEDGE - A pledge made with a specific dollar amount. 

SYBUNT (Some Years But Unfortunately Not This year) - A past donor who has made a gift to Colgate 

at least once in the past five years, but has not made a gift during the current fiscal year. 

UNSPECIFIC PLEDGE - A pledge made without a specific dollar amount.

A Message from President Rebecca S. Chopp - Alumni

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