Frequently Asked Questions About Naropa's Annual Fund

Annual Fund FAQ

What is the Naropa Annual Fund

The Naropa Annual Fund is a partnership between the Board of Trustees, our faculty and staff, our alumni, our parents, and friends in the community to raise money annually to enhance the quality of education and to increase access to Naropa's powerful education.

What is the 2017-2018 Goal?

$1.8 million is the goal, an impressive amount that will involve the generous support of our Trustees, alumni, faculty and staff, parents, and friends of Naropa.

How much should I give?

To help you determine what amount is best for your household, please look at the following Naropa Giving Circles and gift ranges:

$25,000          Contemplative Circle
$10,000-$24,999      Wisdom Circle
$5,000-$9,999           President's Circle
$2,500-$4,999           Peace and Justice Circle
$1,000-$2,499           Founder's Circle
$500-$999     Community Circle
$250-$499     Meditation Circle
$100-$249     Service Circle
$50-$99         Friends of Naropa Circle

Donations to the Naropa Annual Fund have a direct and immediate impact on the advancement of the university.

Why is the Annual Fund important to Naropa?

Naropa's immediate and long-term financial health depends on a strong Annual Fund. Your tax-deductible gift to Naropa's Annual Fund allows us to continue to lead the world in providing academic excellence through contemplative education.

How does the Annual Fund utilize our gifts?

Each year, Naropa examines the school's priorities in accordance with the strategic plan and determines how the Annual Fund might be used in these areas:

• Student Scholarships - nearly $4 million is awarded each year
• Programs and Facility Enhancements
• Academic Schools and Departments
• Faculty and Staff Professional Development

Can I designate my gift for specific purposes other than what is listed above?

Yes, you can designate your gift to a restricted fund or you may choose to give unrestricted funds that allow Naropa to utilize your gift in the area of greatest need.

Will my donation really make a difference?

Absolutely! In fact, a dollar to Naropa goes further than a dollar to a larger institution and can be directly tied to improving the student experience. It is vital that we receive gifts at all levels. Foundations, corporations, and major donors care about the breadth of support that is shown for the university. It is just as important that more alumni, more faculty and staff, and more friends contribute toward this goal. Any gift, large or small, is greatly appreciated, and will be acknowledged with enthusiasm and gratitude

How often will you solicit me for a donation this year?

The Naropa Annual Fund begins a new campaign every year at the start of its fiscal year, July 1. However, the official kick-off is in October, which begins with soliciting contributions from Trustees, alumni, parents of current students, faculty/staff, and friends of the school. Once you have pledged or promised an amount to the Annual Fund, you have until June 30 to pay that amount, or you may choose to spread out your payment over several months. We will send you periodic pledge reminders until your pledge is paid.

Do you only accept cash gifts to the Annual Fund?

We will happily accept gifts of securities which may have very positive tax results for you, the donor. In addition, the Development Office would be happy to discuss other gift options. Please contact Angela Madura, Director of Development, at 303-245-4751 or development@naropa.edu if you have questions.

Are gifts accepted anonymously?

Yes, Naropa University respects any donor's wish to remain anonymous.

Is it possible to make a gift in honor or memory of someone? How is that person or family acknowledged?

This is a great way to honor a loved one, be they family, faculty, staff, or former student, while supporting Naropa University at the same time. All you need to do is indicate who you would like to honor when you send in your gift. Be sure to also include the person's address or email. We will happily let the honoree or their family know of your gift—however, no amount will be revealed. Your gift will also be noted in the school publications.

What is your matching gift program?

There are many companies in the Boulder-Denver area, and nationwide, who have matching gift programs. If you (or your spouse) work for one of these companies, your donation to the Naropa Annual Fund could more than double. Please consult your company's Human Resources Department to secure the appropriate paperwork that can be submitted when you send in your gift.

Where do I send my Gift?

Please send your donation to:

Naropa University
2130 Arapahoe Avenue
Boulder, CO 80302