President’s Club

Since the 1850s, when a local businessman donated the site for the school that would become Penn State, our Presidents have counted upon the partnership of alumni and citizens who believe in the importance of public higher education. Over the years, a tradition of support has helped the University to become one of the world’s top-ranked institutions. Today, Penn State recognizes those who lead through their philanthropy with membership in the President’s Club, a society whose many benefits and events celebrate the extraordinary generosity of the University’s supporters.

Membership in the President’s Club is offered annually to Penn State donors—both graduates and friends of the University—whose gifts total $2,500 or more during that fiscal year (July 1 to June 30). Donors who have graduated from the University within the last ten years—our GOLD alumni—receive the same offer of membership beginning at the $1,000 level. Gifts to any campus, college, or program count toward membership. While planned or deferred commitments are not included in President’s Club totals, any outright gift may be counted, including cash, securities, support from family foundations and donor-advised funds, and matching gifts from employers. The goal of these guidelines is to recognize those donors whose gifts are making a difference right away, as well as far into the future.

The greatest reward of President’s Club membership is the knowledge that your support is helping the University and its students, but Penn State also offers many opportunities for members to learn more about the impact of their gifts and to connect with other alumni and friends who share their enthusiasm and pride.

Benefits of President’s Club membership at the initial $2,500 level (or the $1,000 level for GOLD donors), also known as the Ralph D. Hetzel Circle in honor of the University’s tenth President, include:

• A lapel pin for first-time members
• An invitation to the annual President’s Club reception held at University Park
• Special communications about campus and college activities

The President’s Club also recognizes donors at two higher levels:

• The Edwin E. Sparks Circle, named for the eighth President of Penn State, recognizes those whose gifts total $5,000 or more in a fiscal year, and its members will be invited to experience Penn State for a day at a special annual event, in addition to the preceding benefits.
• The President’s Circle, celebrating donors whose annual gifts total $10,000 or more, offers all of the preceding benefits as well as additional recognition online and at events, including a President’s Circle gathering with the President.

As members of the President’s Club, our most generous supporters are not only participating in one of the University’s most important and prestigious organizations—they are also setting a new standard of loyalty and commitment to the Penn State community.