Faculty members have an important role to play in helping to fund programs and direct donor dollars at colleges and universities. This paper outlines the "golden age of philanthropy" that the United States has currently entered, explaining the combination of material resources and spiritual inclinations that have led to increased giving. It then outlines several principles that faculty members should keep in mind in approaching prospective donors, including the reasons for giving, donors' interest in ideas, and the importance of persistence, local focus, and collaboration. Finally it offers several practical steps that faculty members can take to marshal philanthropic support for their visions.