Frequently Asked Questions
Giving to CU Denver is an investment in student success and the future of our community. Below you’ll find answers to common questions about how your gift makes a difference, why private support matters, and the lasting impact philanthropy has on our students, alumni, and the region we serve.
Giving FAQs
Will my donation make a difference?
Absolutely. On a personal level. Your gift goes directly to student success — making an immediate impact. Students who are able to focus on their studies instead of their finances are bound to do great things. And like you, they’ll pay it forward later in life. It’s not an understatement to say that your gift can transform lives and communities.
What makes CU Denver students unique?
Over half of our incoming freshman are first-generation college students. Nearly 60% are minorities. They arrive here with an impressive average high school GPA of 3.4. And more than 80% have part-time jobs. CU Denver students want to help their families and communities after they graduate. (Remind you of anyone?)
How will my gift help students?
Our students work hard. Really hard. Your generosity removes financial obstacles to graduation. It also gives students the freedom to channel their energy into internships, volunteering in the community, and conducting research in a field that’s directly related to their degree—all opportunities that add value to an education.
How is scholarship support significant to CU Denver and its alumni?
Scholarships help us attract top students—students who understand the incredible power of a world-class education. Those students also help the university attract and retain the best faculty. As the reputation of CU Denver continues to grow, the value of every degree rises along with it.
CU Denver is a public university. Why does it need private support?
Private support changes the lives of CU Denver students. Your contribution makes an immediate impact on a student’s education and life. Just as important, you’re also boosting initiatives that advance the mission of the University and benefit our local, state, and national communities.
Why should I make a gift now?
The city of Denver is enjoying a historic transition—providing CU Denver with a unique opportunity to elevate our profile. It’s also positioning our students to take advantage of the city’s increased momentum. Scholarships help our students benefit from Denver’s growth, and contribute to it.
How is student success at CU Denver significant to the larger community?
Sixty-seven percent of our alumni stay in Colorado after they graduate, representing a large share of our diverse workforce. This creates a ripple effect, as past students influence the present and future of Denver and the state.
Who else provides Philanthropic support to CU Denver?
Our alumni. Their families. Corporate and community leaders. Faculty and staff. We’re fortunate to enjoy tremendous support from across Denver from those who appreciate the value of a CU Denver education. Our new vitality is making CU Denver a smart choice for your support.
Scholarship FAQs
How can I name a scholarship?
The minimum gift required to name an endowed scholarship is $25,000, while the minimum gift required to name an annual scholarship is $25,000.
May I pay my donation over time?
Yes. The Advancement Office will assist by sending pledge reminders at your request. Two- to three-year pledges are encouraged, and up to five years are allowed for gifts of $25,000 or more.
How will I know my donation will be used specifically for scholarships?
Scholarship gift agreements between the donor and University ensure that donations are used specifically for their stated purpose.
Can I choose the scholarship recipients?
Because donors establish scholarship funds at the University of Colorado with charitable contributions, their participation in the recipient selection process is limited. We work with each donor establishing a named scholarship to draft eligibility and selection criteria that fulfill the gift’s intent, then determine on a case-by-case basis appropriate ways donors may be involved in reviewing applications.
Will I find out who received the scholarship I provide?
Yes. Provided your donation is at the minimum level required to establish a named fund (see above), the Advancement Office will notify you of the scholarship recipient(s). Additionally, the Advancement Office provides opportunities for scholarship donors to meet recipients at a variety of events and programs.
What portion of my fund supports administrative expenses?
No fees are assessed to administer annual scholarships. As is common practice among university foundations, endowment funds are subject to an annual management fee that supports CU fundraising operations. This fee is currently set at 1.5 percent.