Giving Societies
For more than 180 years, alumni and other supporters, foundations and corporations have chosen to make a difference for Oglethorpe University and Oglethorpe students through their philanthropy.
Our giving societies honor the generous commitments made by donors in the way most meaningful to them, whether through monthly sustaining gifts, annual contributions, significant leadership gifts, or planned gift bequests.
With generous support made through these groups, Oglethorpe can continue cultivating an environment at Oglethorpe where students are prepared for success in professional endeavors as responsible and productive contributors to a global society.
The Carillon Club exists to allow Oglethorpe to distinguish and offer special acknowledgment to those individuals – alumni, parents and friends – who support the University through consecutive annual philanthropy. Ongoing philanthropy by consecutive donors strengthens the University’s ability to create and sustain academic programs, launch outreach initiatives that improve the community and provide educational opportunities for deserving students.
The goal of the Carillon Club is to encourage consecutive years of philanthropy regardless of the monetary amount. Donors qualify for membership in the Carillon Club upon their third consecutive year of making a gift to the University and membership is maintained as long as the donor makes at least one gift each fiscal year (July 1 – June 30).
The Gray Stone Society, named for the signature granite in our historic campus buildings, recognizes those generous donors to Oglethorpe University whose total philanthropic commitments have reached historic levels. Oglethorpe University’s Board of Trustees, administration, faculty, staff, and students gratefully thank these donors, whose generosity has strengthened and sustained this institution – built on enduring granite and nourished by the Gray Stone members.
Members of The James Edward Oglethorpe Circle are among the most generous and loyal university benefactors. Supporting students and faculty, academics, performing arts and athletics, facilities and more, Circle members are a vital part of OU’s success. The James Edward Oglethorpe Circle recognizes alumni, families and friends who contribute $1,000 or more to the Annual Fund or specific budgeted programs during the university’s fiscal year. We are deeply grateful to all members for supporting students and faculty, academics, performing arts and athletics, facilities and more.
Be a part of Oglethorpe’s next generation of alumni leaders. The Young Alumni James Edwards Oglethorpe Circle recognizes graduates of the last 10 years who set a standard for their peers through their involvement and philanthropic support of OU.
The Young Alumni James Edward Oglethorpe Circle recognizes graduates of the last 10 years who contribute the following amount to the Annual Fund or specific budgeted programs during the university’s fiscal year.
Giving Levels:
Annual giving total of $150 for our most recent graduates (classes of 2021-2023)
Annual giving total of $250 for graduates 4-6 years out (classes of 2018-2020)
Annual giving total of $500 for graduates 7-10 years out (classes of 2014-2017)
Gifts can be made in one annual payment, or monthly increments totaling the full amount. To make your one-time gift or set up a recurring donation, simply fill out our online giving form.
“Neskeets,” as members are affectionately known, will not give up on Oglethorpe. They have remembered the University in their estate plans to ensure its success in the future. The phrase closes out the Alma Mater and is a suitable name for the society of those who have made bequests and other planned gifts to the university. Those highly personal and enduring gifts ensure the long-term security of Oglethorpe.
Nescit Cedere, a Latin phrase pronounced “nes-keet keh-deh-reh,” was taken from the Oglethorpe family crest as the University’s motto. It translates as “he does not know how to give up” and perfectly captures the pride and tenacity of those who give loyally to Oglethorpe and sustain it through good times and bad.
Eligible gifts include:
- Bequests and other estate gifts
- IRA’s and other retirement plans
- Charitable Gift Annuities
- Charitable Remainder Trusts
- Gifts of Residence or Farm with Retained Life Estate
- Charitable Lead Trusts
- Life Insurance Policies
ALMA MATER
Our dear Alma Mater, To you we sing our praise.
Your gray stone and mortar give strength for the coming days.
Then like the Petrel, feet near the ocean, We’ll rise thru wind and rain.
Yes, Oglethorpe, you’re here to remind us: Nescit Cedere
The Core Curriculum is the tie that binds all generations of Oglethorpe graduates and remains the foundation for developing critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills.
OU CORE SUSTAINERS
Philanthropic support of all levels is important to help us satisfy our mission. By becoming a monthly donor, you are supporting The Core. OU Core Sustainers celebrates donors who give at regular intervals as a demonstration of their commitment to educational excellence. Supporting the university’s mission through monthly support is a critical component of OU’s success. Annual support needs continue to increase, and Core Sustainers help us meet these monthly needs. Oglethorpe University is a nonprofit institution that relies on philanthropic gifts from alumni, parents, faculty, staff, friends, foundations, and corporations. We celebrate all who donate in support of students, faculty, and campus improvements.
Your monthly gift will:
- Provide scholarship funds for students in need, so they can focus on their studies
- Give students the opportunity to participate in new programs and enhance their leadership skills
- Support faculty and help to retain and recruit the best talent
- Preserve and maintain our beautiful campus buildings and grounds
Examples of monthly giving amounts:
Monthly gift: $5 $10 $25 $50 $75 $100
Annual donation: $60 $120 $300 $600 $900 $1,200*
*By donating $83.34 or more per month between July 1 and June 30, you become a member of the James Edward Oglethorpe Circle.
Core Sustainer monthly gifts can have a huge impact on student outcomes. Gifts of ALL sizes make a difference. Please sign up online now as an OU Core Sustainer and become part of this committed donor group.
With questions, please contact the Office of the Annual Fund at 404.364.8338.
Oglethorpe needs your support. Become an OU Core Sustainer today.