The most popular fundraisers seem to be bake sales, cake-walks, car-washes and auctions (silent or otherwise).
MSU is taking the reigns this year on a diffferent type of fundraiser, one that will bring in the big bucks and have a lasting impact on the donors, the school and the students.
For the past five years, donors have been offered ‘naming opportunities’ for various classrooms, common areas and scholarships at MSU.
It may not seem like that big of a deal, but in reality, it’s important to the life of our university as well as the involvement of the community.
Patrons are asked to pay a negotiable amount to MSU so they can name the physical space of their choosing.
Cost of these spaces ranges from $25,000 to $5 million. Donors choosing to name endowments/scholarships must begin their donations at $10,000, and have no set limit.
This type of fundraiser benefits all parties involved for a lifetime, instead of just having someone buy something at a fundraiser that they will forget about, eat, or never use again.
These donations are a mark on the community for the patrons as well as for MSU.
For donors, this naming opportunity makes a permanent effect on the MSU community.
Alumni donors may feel more connected and involved with the university, even if they are unable to visit or make regular contributions.
The donors also benefit by getting a nice tax cut from their generous donations.
For the university this naming program is a great opportunity and idea. It shows MSU supporters that their support is still needed at MSU and that they are still welcome to be involved in what happens on campus.
Students are the core of any university. This program allows deserving students to receive the education they would otherwise not be able to attain because of financial inabilities.
Every bit of money given to the scholarship division of the naming program benefits students by offering scholarships and financial aid.
Since about 20 percent of the university’s income comes from private donations, it is imperative that MSU employs aggressive tactics in raising funds.
This naming program is one of the smartest fundraising programs MSU has in place.
Hopes are high that this program takes off and interests the appropriate donors.