
Class Gift FAQ
What is the 2019 Class Gift Campaign?
The Class Gift Campaign provides an opportunity for 2019 graduates to commemorate their time at the Law School. It represents the Class of 2019’s support to the Law School, their recognition of the ways they have benefited from the donations of the law students and alumni who preceded them, and their commitment to pay it forward to ensure that future generations of students will have their own life-changing experiences at Minnesota Law. Finally, it marks the beginning of their lifelong relationship with the University of Minnesota Law School; no longer as law students, but now as alumni.
Why should I make a donation to the Law School?
It Has Impacted You: Philanthropy touches every area of the Law School and, no matter what activities you participated in, your time at Minnesota was made better by previous students and alumni gifts. Everything from clinics to great professors to scholarships to Mondale Hall itself has been made possible thanks to donor support. By making your first gift to the Law School, you are acknowledging the importance of philanthropy and contribute towards the legacy of giving established by the MLaw students and alumni who have come before you.
You Can Make a Difference: By making your gift, you have the special opportunity to ensure that future students can create their own unique MLaw experiences, just like you did. And, you will inspire future classes in your commitment to continue the strong tradition of support the Minnesota has celebrated for decades.
You Can Show Your School Pride: Your participation shows law firms, foundations and prospective students your confidence in MN Law’s mission and the education you received. It shows current donors that their donations are well placed, and inspires additional philanthropic support of the Law School.
Students pay tuition, so does the law school really need our money?
Yes! Tuition only covers a portion of what it takes to run the law school on an annual basis. In fact, less than half of the Law School’s annual budget is fulfilled by J.D. tuition (and state support). Donations from alumni and friends make up the difference. Without these gifts, the Law School would not be able to fund student organizations, keep class sizes down, employ distinguished faculty, offer a wide variety of courses, provide career services, maintain the extensive library or continually upgrade technology. In particular, scholarships and awards enable the school to recruit talented students and to minimize the loan burden.
Will our gifts really make a difference?
Absolutely. However, participation matters most. Gifts of any amount are greatly appreciated. The fact that you give is more important than the amount. Alumni participation is very compelling - but student giving is even more so. Your participation shows your confidence in the Law School’s mission and the education you received, setting a powerful example other alumni, individuals and firms.
Do I have to give to the Law School Scholarship Fund? Can I choose another fund?
You can choose to support another existing law school fund either in addition to or instead of the Law School Scholarship Fund. See a list of other popular fund options.
For more information, please contact Lizzy Behgelli in the Office of Advancement at beghelli@umn.edu or 612-624-0097.