Campaign Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of a comprehensive gifts campaign for Binghamton University?
Bold. Brilliant. Binghamton. The Campaign for Binghamton University will increase private support and coordinate fundraising efforts while rallying the campus around a common initiative. It will also expand alumni and friends involvement, making it easier to recruit committed volunteers working to strengthen the University’s mission.
What is the campaign goal?
The Bold. Brilliant. Binghamton. Campaign will raise more than $95 million by June 30, 2012 and create a broader base of support for our students, faculty and academic programs.
The campaign’s monetary goal was determined by the Binghamton University Foundation’s Board of Directors after considering the needs of the campus and reviewing both the giving potential of the donor base and the results of a feasibility study conducted by The Solstice Group.
Why is a state-supported university seeking private support through a campaign?
While Binghamton University does receive state support, those funds are decreasing — last year they made up only 39 percent of the University’s revenue. That means 61 percent comes from private gifts, along with tuition, earned income, and government grants and contracts.
Won’t the New York State Legislature decrease its support of Binghamton University accordingly?
No! Robust private involvement sends a strong signal to legislatures that Binghamton University has a passionate base of supporters who want to see the school succeed and receive more funding, not less. Private financial contributions show that the University is highly regarded, worthy of maximum state support.
Why should private donors support Bold. Brilliant. Binghamton. The Campaign for Binghamton University?
Private giving provides the financial margin needed to go beyond the basic level provided by the state and build truly extraordinary programs and learning opportunities. It is private giving that supports scholarships (need-based and merit-based), attracts and retains incredibly talented (and coveted) faculty, builds the state-of-the-art facilities necessary to conduct cutting-edge research, which private giving also supports. Without private support, Binghamton University wouldn’t be able to be the nationally recognized public school it is.
Giving to the Bold. Brilliant. Campaign is also a significant investment in the future of the region and the state. In fiscal year 2008-2009, Binghamton University supported 8 percent of all employment in Greater Binghamton and was 11 percent of GDP. But more importantly, it created opportunities for and built partnerships with local entrepreneurs and industry, creating and retaining even more jobs in the area. None of this activity is possible without private giving.
Are the gifts tax deductible?
Yes. Gifts to Bold. Brilliant. Binghamton. are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law. (Donors are encouraged to seek advice of qualified financial advisors to determine the appropriate ways to make gifts.)
Can campaign donations be designated for certain colleges, schools or units?
Yes. Donors may restrict gifts to a college, school or unit by simply indicating the preferred area on the gift card or on the online giving form. Contributions to the Binghamton Fund are critical to addressing the greatest and most immediate needs of Binghamton University. It gives the school the funds necessary to react to an ever-changing economic landscape while seeding money for research grants and community projects. The Binghamton Fund supports the present. The Bold. Brilliant. Binghamton. Campaign enables the University to plan for the future, to map out strategies and take steps to achieve long-term goals. Ideally, donors will continue to support the Binghamton Fund and make a generous contribution to the campaign.
Can donors make gifts anonymously?
Yes. Anonymous gifts are accepted and anonymity will be protected. Like public gifts, anonymous gifts are tax deductible to the full extent provided by law.
