Why is the foundation board's involvement in fund raising important? Because successful fund raising requires a team effort, and volunteer leaders are essential members of the team. Board members should set the pace through their own giving, and they should be actively engaged in the identification, cultivation, and solicitation of others. The…

With the United States economy on a rollercoaster ride this year and words like "meltdown," "bailout," and "crisis" commonly used in recent weeks in connection with the financial markets, college and university administrators might find themselves becoming increasingly anxious about their fundraising plans. They…

The legal terrain regarding institutions' rights for use of major charitable gifts has clarified somewhat in recent months. While this may encourage institutional fundraisers, it is also clear that extreme care still must be taken about the acceptance and terms set for use of transformational gifts. As recent lawsuits demonstrate, careful planning…

Explores whether trustee boards should establish a naming-rights policy for donators of large gifts. Suggests that the beginning of a comprehensive fundraising campaign is a good time to address such standards, and offers factors to keep in mind when making decisions about naming college facilities after donors. (EV)

Offers contrasting views on whether the federal government's scheduled repeal of the estate tax will crimp charitable giving to higher education. (EV)

Explores whether venture philanthropy (grant making based on principles used by venture capitalists for investing in new businesses) is good for higher education and--good or bad--how higher education should respond to alumni, business leaders, and foundation representatives who wish to focus their support this way. (EV)

An individual describes and discusses seven stages of giving through which he and his wife have passed, and two additional stages they are contemplating. They include: minimal response; involvement and interest; as much as possible; maximum allowable; beyond the maximum; percentage of wealth; capping wealth; reducing the cap; and bequests. (MSE)