Endowed Gifts

Gustavus celebrates all gifts but pays special attention to donors who choose to support the College through endowed gifts because they last beyond a lifetime.

When someone gives to endowment, the principal amount is invested in the market. The original investment gains interest and a portion of that interest can be spent according to the College’s policy. The principle and a portion of the remaining earnings are then reinvested, making it a gift that keeps giving for the lifetime of the College.

Endowments can be restricted, meaning the funds must be used for a specific purpose, or they can be unrestricted, which allows the Board of Trustees to allocate the dollars where they are most needed. Some examples of restricted endowed gifts include scholarships, professorships, and signature programs or lectures.

A strong endowment is a key indicator of a premier institution and a bright future.