Named Endowments

Named Endowments Make a Difference

Establishing a named endowment creates a path for Eastern Washington University students to earn life-changing degrees and go on to make a difference in their communities. These named funds create an enduring legacy in honor of special people in our lives, while providing funding that supports high-quality, accessible programs that foster student success. 

Here’s how endowed funds work: These permanent funds are invested to generate earnings, paying out annual support in perpetuity that provides dependable funding for scholarships, fellowships, professorships, libraries, programs and other university needs. This private philanthropy provides transformational opportunities for students, including many who are the first in their families to attend college, and fills gaps that state funds do not cover. 

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of establishing an endowment is that you are changing lives into the future – while honoring what you hold dear. Donors say they appreciate the opportunities Eastern provides for them to learn about the students they are helping, as well as the annual reports they receive about their endowed funds. 

Eastern supporters create named endowments for multiple reasons, including: 

•  Honoring a family member, friend or other person who made a positive impact in your life. 
• Creating a legacy that pays tribute to a loved one. 
• Supporting hardworking students who fill vital workforce needs. 
• Advancing important research. 
• Potentially saving on taxes and experiencing financial benefits that may enable you to give more than you thought possible. 

The gift for endowment purposes can be cash or appreciated properties, such as securities, real estate, or tangible and intangible personal property acceptable to the foundation. Endowments can also be created through a will, a charitable trust or other life income plan, retirement plan assets, or an insurance policy. 

Here are a few opportunities for named endowment funds: 

• Endowed scholarships and fellowships (general or athletics) 
• Endowed chairs, deans and professorships 
• Named colleges, academic buildings or residence halls 
• Named centers, such as the Veterans Resource Center 

Eastern Washington University’s development experts can answer questions and help you select the gift arrangement and type of fund that best meets your financial and charitable goals.