FAQs

“Is my gift tax deductible?”

In general, an outright gift (gifts to The Lawrence Fund or other gifts of cash or securities) qualifies for an immediate income tax deduction for the full fair market value of the property contributed, subject to allowable contribution ceilings. In the case of gifts of appreciated securities held for more than one year, the donor will entirely avoid capital gains taxes on the contributed property.

“Didn't Lawrence just have a fundraising campaign?”

The university's last capital campaign was concluded in 1997. The growth and improvements in the years since (and plans for future endeavors) require that we seek additional funds.

“Can I direct my gift to a specific need?”

Yes, you can. Lawrence provides a number of ways to contribute, the most common of which is The Lawrence Fund, the university’s annual fund. Among other things, The Lawrence Fund supports ongoing operations - critical to any university, to be sure.

“Are there naming opportunities on campus?”

There are several levels of naming open to any contributor. They include named endowments, building, equipment, instrument and special collection naming, named professorships, named scholarships, and named library funds. In addition, naming opportunities will be possible for contributors to the renovation of Memorial Union and Jason Downer Commons. For details, please call our Office of Development at 800-283-8320, ext. 6517. Each year, Lawrence receives a number of gifts honoring the lives and memories of individuals who were students, alumni, parents, faculty, staff, or friends of Lawrence or Milwaukee-Downer College. Lawrence deeply appreciates memorial gifts, and the development office stands ready to assist individuals and families who would like to direct memorial contributions to the college in meaningful ways.