What is the Bridgewater Fund?
The Bridgewater Fund raises unrestricted dollars that provide immediate budget relief, eliminating the wait for funds when needs and opportunities arise throughout the academic year. Annual gifts to the Bridgewater Fund from alumni, parents, friends and businesses also help to supplement operating costs not covered by tuition, outside grants or endowed funds. As such, gifts to the Bridgewater Fund are among the most important made each year.
What is the Bridgewater Fund goal for this fiscal year?
The Bridgewater Fund goal for 2008-09 is $725,000. Any contribution to 1) greatest needs (unrestricted), 2) current year scholarships, or 3) the library, will help us meet our goal.
How will I be contacted?
We contact our supporters by mail about four times each year, or until we receive a gift or pledge. We also conduct a phonathon each semester where our students have the opportunity to reach out to alumni, parents, and friends. They carefully update demographic information, share news about Bridgewater College, and ask for a gift to the Bridgewater Fund.
What size gift will make a difference?
Every gift, regardless of size, is important in helping Bridgewater College reach its annual financial and participation goals.
How important is participation?
A successful Bridgewater Fund year happens when everyone who has a stake in the future of Bridgewater College makes their best possible gift. Last year, we had a 24.6% alumni participation rate. This year, we are striving for 27%.
Alumni participation is one statistic reported to such ranking organizations as U.S. News & World Report. As such, it is a measure of satisfaction and serves as a vote of confidence in Bridgewater College. As participation increases from year to year, our reputation for academic excellence is enhanced, along with the value of a Bridgewater College diploma.
How will my gift be recognized?
Donors are listed in the annual President's Report and Honor Roll. This publication is usually mailed out in late fall.
Can I give anonymously?
Absolutely. We respect our donors' privacy, so please let us know at the time of your contribution if you choose this option.
Do gifts designated to family scholarships or other areas of the College count?
Designated gifts serve an important purpose at Bridgewater College but do not count toward the Bridgewater Fund. The Bridgewater Fund goal is based on purely unrestricted gifts, current year scholarships and gifts to the library. This fund's purpose is to provide discretionary funds that supplement the College's operating budget allowing the College to meet challenges and take advantage of opportunities that arise throughout the academic year.
Does my Eagle Club membership count?
We appreciate our enthusiastic and loyal athletic fans, however Eagle Club dues afford members specific benefits and are not tax deductible, nor are they countable toward the Bridgewater Fund goal.
How can I find out more?
To mail a check or find out more about making a gift to the Bridgewater Fund, contact:
Jaime M. Penney, '01
Director of the Bridgewater Fund
Office of Institutional Advancement
402 E. College Street
Bridgewater, VA 22812-1599
Office Phone: (540) 828-5456
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