Unrestricted gifts provide flexibility in times of need

Jonathan Wanderstock

By Jonathan Wanderstock

While the School of Journalism and Mass Communication is grateful for all contributions, securing unrestricted or discretionary gifts is the chief focus of the School's annual giving campaign this year.

Arguably the most difficult dollars to raise, unrestricted gifts are very important especially in challenging economic times. Discretionary gifts tend to make the biggest impact because they allow the dean to fund some of the School's most critical needs that aren't normally covered by the general operating budget. In periods when budgets are being slashed, unrestricted funds take on even greater importance.

I am pleased to report that many of the School's donors, including members of the Advisory Board, are making discretionary gifts this year.

Advisory Board member Jack Holden ('48), recently made an unrestricted donation that enabled the School to purchase a high-speed, digital camera. Due to severe budget cuts imposed on the SJMC this academic year, the School couldn't afford to buy this expensive camera. When Jack learned of the situation, he decided to designate a portion of his major gift toward the camera. Thanks to Jack, the School has had the use of a Canon 1D since mid-October. In particular, the Campus Press, the SJMC's weekly newspaper, has benefited tremendously from having access to the camera for taking photos at CU sporting events.

Your unrestricted gift will provide immediate support for the School's many outstanding program initiatives that help shape the lives of our students. Do not underestimate the power of your commitment.

Every contribution, regardless of the amount, represents an investment in the School's future. The students who currently attend the SJMC and those who will be considering the School tomorrow are worthy of your assistance.

If you wish to make a gift to the School, please mail your contribution to:
The University of Colorado Foundation
P.O. Box 1140
Boulder, CO 80306

Your gift can take the form of cash, credit card, stock or real estate. Please make checks payable to the CU Foundation. In the memo portion, write "SJMC" and, if appropriate, the fund you would like your gift to go to (e.g., "Dean's Discretionary Fund"). Thank you in advance for keeping the School high on your priority list.