What are Honorary or Memorial Scholarships?
Creating a Lasting Legacy:
Honorary and Memorial Scholarships at Starr King
At Starr King School for the Ministry, we deeply value the power of tribute gifts to honor or remember loved ones in meaningful ways. These contributions, known as honorary and memorial gifts, allow donors to celebrate significant milestones or commemorate the lives of individuals who have made a lasting impact. Through the establishment of a scholarship, donors create an enduring legacy that supports our mission of educating progressive religious leaders to create just and sustainable communities.
Understanding Tribute Gifts
Tribute gifts at Starr King can take two forms:
- Honorary Scholarships: These gifts are made in recognition of a living individual, celebrating occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, or as an expression of gratitude. Honorary scholarships are a heartfelt way to honor someone’s commitment to Unitarian Universalism, social justice, ministry, or education.
- Memorial Scholarships: These gifts serve as a tribute to the memory of a loved one who has passed away. Memorial scholarships offer a meaningful way for friends and family to keep the memory of the deceased alive, celebrating their legacy and values. Memorial gifts may be made at the time of passing or to mark special dates such as birthdays or anniversaries.
Setting Up an Honorary or Memorial Scholarship
Donors may choose to direct their tribute gift to any existing scholarship fund at Starr King or establish a new named scholarship in honor or memory of their loved one. The minimum commitment required to create a new named scholarship is as follows:
- Annual Named Scholarship: A commitment of at least $5,000 per year for a minimum of four years.
- Endowed Named Scholarship: A minimum of $25,000, which can be pledged over a period not to exceed five years.
Annual scholarships provide immediate support to students, with funds distributed each year according to the donor’s wishes. Endowed scholarships, on the other hand, create a permanent legacy. The principal amount is invested, and only the earnings are used to fund scholarships, ensuring support for students in perpetuity.
The Process of Establishing a Scholarship
When a donor decides to establish a new named scholarship, our Advancement team at Starr King will work closely with them to define the fund’s purpose and specific criteria for awarding scholarships. The process involves:
- Defining the Purpose: The donor, along with their family or group, will determine the focus of the scholarship. It could support students based on their academic achievements, financial need, specific areas of study, or other criteria aligned with the donor’s values.
- Executing a Fund Agreement: A formal agreement will be drafted, outlining the administration of the scholarship and its intended impact. This ensures clarity and alignment with the donor’s wishes.
- Ongoing Communication: A designated representative from the donor’s side will receive updates and communications about the scholarship, including the impact it is making on students’ lives.
Notification and Recognition
Donors making a tribute gift to Starr King will receive an acknowledgment and a tax receipt for their charitable contribution. Additionally, a notification will be sent to a person designated by the donor (such as a family member of the honoree or memorialized individual), including the names and addresses of the donors but excluding the gift amounts.
Establishing a Scholarship Through Tribute Gifts
Many families and friends choose to establish a scholarship in lieu of flowers or traditional gifts. This gesture not only honors the individual but also supports the education of future religious leaders committed to justice and transformative action. If you would like to include this option in an obituary or announcement, we suggest the following sample language:
“The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to Starr King School for the Ministry. Please indicate that the gift is made in memory of [Name] in the memo line of your check and mail it to: Starr King School for the Ministry, 414 13th Street, Suite 700, Oakland, CA 94612.”
Establishing a Scholarship Through Tribute Gifts
By establishing an honorary or memorial scholarship at Starr King School for the Ministry, you contribute to the ongoing growth and vitality of our institution. Your generosity ensures that future leaders have access to the education and resources needed to make a profound difference in the world. Whether you choose an annual or endowed scholarship, your gift will have a lasting impact, touching the lives of countless students and the communities they will go on to serve.
To learn more about creating a named scholarship or to begin the process, please contact our Vice President for Advancement, Jessica Cloud at jcloud@sksm.edu or via phone at 571-438-8333. We are honored to work with you to create a meaningful tribute that aligns with your vision and values.