Frequently Asked Questions

• I am unable to make a current gift, but I'd still like to support St. Bonaventure University in the future. Any ideas?

  An easy and low-cost way to make a gift to St. Bonaventure University is to include us in your will or revocable trust. Gifts by Will are a major source of endowment support at St. Bonaventure. Each individual legacy contributes to our financial strength and ability to meet the needs of our students and their families. If you have not already done so, please consider putting St. Bonaventure University in your will or revocable trust. See our Bequest Language page for samples of how to do this. You can also designate us the beneficiary of Life Insurance, annuities, or Retirement-Plan Benefits.

• What asset should I use to make my gift?

  While cash or a check is a simple way to make a gift, you might want to consider the following:

  Gift Type	Possible Benefits
  Cash	Current income-tax deduction
  Appreciated securities, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds	Elimination or reduction of capital-gain tax Current income-tax deduction Generate income
  Transfer of residential, commercial, or undeveloped real estate	Elimination or reduction of capital-gain tax Income- and estate-tax savings Generate income Relief from management
  Donate an interest in closely held or family business stock	Reduce the cost of passing the business to heirs Income- and estate-tax savings Generate income
  Give us tangible personal property like art, books, or collectibles	An income-tax charitable deduction
  Make St. Bonaventure University the owner and beneficiary of life insurance or annuities	Income- and estate-tax savings

   

• Can I direct how St. Bonaventure University will use my gift?

  Yes. Many donors direct that their gifts be used to fund programs, support specific departments, or remember a loved one. Please be sure to discuss this when you make your gift.

• How will St. Bonaventure University recognize my gift?

  If your gift is a bequest commitment or through life insurance, life-income plans, or lead trusts, you will become a permanent member of Seraphim Legacy Society. Of course, we will also honor any requests for gifts to be anonymous.

• Why should I consider a gift to St. Bonaventure University?

  Gifts are made for many different reasons. Often gifts are made:

  • To express gratitude for the education you received.
  • To honor a loved one.
  • To ensure St. Bonaventure University will remain a vibrant and strong place for today’s future students.
  • To help St. Bonaventure University provide the very best in education to students, regardless of their finances.
  • To celebrate a special occasion.

Please contact the Gift Planning Office for more information.