Giving Facts and Common Questions
frequently asked questions about giving to bc
How does BC's alumni giving rate compare to other schools and why is it important?
Your gift can have a direct impact on BC's national ranking in U.S. News & World Report.
U.S. News & World Report factors alumni giving into its formula for identifying the best colleges in the nation. Increased alumni support has a direct and positive impact on BC's ranking. The higher BC's ranking, the more valuable a BC degree is to all alumni.
* U.S. News and World Report, America's Best Colleges 2012.
Why does BC need my money? Don't we have a big endowment? Haven't I paid enough in tuition?
The University is funded by three major sources: tuition, endowment, and alumni giving. Endowment is the body of invested funds that produce annual income for a broad spectrum of purposes: support for student financial aid, distinguished faculty, outstanding academic programs, and faculty and student research. Endowment provides critical financial stability, ensuring a source of financial support year after year. Almost half of the endowment is already spoken for (i.e. can't be used for everyday expenses), and the University doesn't actually like raising tuition in order to make BC a better place. Gifts from alumni make the difference!
Doesn't BC make enough money from football and basketball
While these two sports have been very successful for the University and do generate revenue, BC's Jesuit-based commitment to a robust, comprehensive athletics program (with 29 other sports) means that the Athletics Department requires a University subsidy of approximately $9 million annually.
Why does my gift matter?
Last year, BC raised over $1.28 million from gifts under $100. With a yield of five percent, it would take nearly $30 million in endowment to generate that much interest in one year.
Your gift to Boston College does not need to be large, every gift makes a difference. The important part of your gift, is not the amount, but that you make a conscious decision to begin the habit of philanthropy.
Why should I give?
Perhaps you have participated in one of the 200 programs that support the BC experience and are possible because of gifts to the University. Here is a list of popular places to designate your gift.
| Office of AHANA Student Programs | Campus Ministry |
| Asian American Scholarship Fund | Appalachia |
| Organizations of Latin American Affairs (OLAA) | Campus School |
| BC bOp | Heights Boys and Girls Club |
| BC Band | ODSD |
| BC Chorale | Sports teams – varsity |
| CSOM Honors Program | Academic programs |
| Fulton Debating Society | Investment Club |
Don't see what you're looking for? E-mail seniorgift@bc.edu to find out if you can designate your gift to that activity or program.
What will my money be used for?
If a gift isn't directed to one of the areas listed in the "Gift Designation" section, then your money will be used to fund student activities and provide financial aid.
Can I do this later?
Yes, but there is never any time better than the present. If you give now, we'll stop asking you for a gift this year. All gifts that count toward the Senior Class Gift campaign must be received by May 31.
Contact the BC Annual Fund: (888) 752-6438 or bcfund@bc.edu