Annual Giving at Plymouth State

The Fund for Plymouth State

The Fund for Plymouth State is one of the University’s highest fundraising priorities. When alumni, parents, faculty, staff, students, and friends give annually to The Fund for Plymouth State, they provide critical student scholarship funds, strengthen the educational experience, expand opportunities for service and engagement, and support the day-to-day operations that allow the University to fulfill its mission.

The Panther Fund

Each year, more than 750 Plymouth State student-athletes, athletic trainers, and support staff—representing 20 varsity teams—take to the fields, courts, ice, slopes, mat, pool, and course. These men and women are committed to giving their best during the season and in the classroom, and it shows in the high number of students who receive All-Academic Team, President’s List, and Dean’s List honors each semester.

These triumphs would not be possible without financial support from alumni, parents, and friends. Your gift to The Panther Fund, whether it be to a specific team or the general athletics fund, is used to meet immediate programmatic needs, such as investing in technologies that position teams for success, supporting team travel costs, purchasing new equipment, and more.

Why are annual gifts needed?
Plymouth State receives funding from three main sources: budget appropriations from the state of New Hampshire; tuition and fees; and private support. The allocation Plymouth State receives from the state of New Hampshire provides just 8 percent of Plymouth State’s operating budget and tuition and fees account for only a portion of the actual cost of educating a student. Annual giving helps to bridge that gap and put the Plymouth Experience within reach for deserving, motivated, and talented students—more than 90 percent of whom receive financial assistance from the University.

Each year’s Annual Giving campaign includes mail, e-mail, and the student calling program. Panther Pride Calls supports current students and faculty by generating private support from Plymouth State’s alumni and friends in a manner that furthers the long-term, positive relationship each person called has with Plymouth State. Student callers appreciate the opportunity to personally thank alumni and friends for their financial support and connect people with the Plymouth State University of today.

Does my participation really matter?
Yes! Gifts of all sizes are important and, when combined with other gifts from alumni and friends, have a tremendous impact on students’ lives. Most importantly, your gift demonstrates your belief in Plymouth State, in our students, and in the educational experience we offers. Every gift matters.
When should I make my gift?
The Plymouth State fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends on June 30. Any gift received during this time period counts toward the current fiscal year’s goals. Many donors choose to make their gifts closer to the end of the calendar year to take advantage of available IRS tax benefits; however, your gift is welcome at any time.
Does Plymouth State offer a matching gift program?
Plymouth State welcomes matching gifts. If your employer offers a matching gift program, you may be able to double or triple your gift to Plymouth State. Contact your company’s Human Resources Office to obtain a matching gift form that you can submit with your gift to Plymouth State or visit matchinggifts.com/plymouth.

Do you have additional questions about Annual Giving?

Contact Alex Wright, Associate Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (603) 535-2566.