Our enthusiastic advocacy and our financial commitment are direct consequences of our appreciation for our UMass Amherst education. The talented faculty and intellectually stimulating environment are essential attributes of a prominent institution of higher learning. We believe it is our responsibility to perpetuate and enhance the UMass experience.

– Henry Barr ’68 and Andrea Barr ’68

Your investment shows you care about maintaining the culture of achievement that makes UMass Amherst a top university. You are building a foundation to meet the needs of the present and the challenges of the future.

One way to say “Thank you!” to our benefactors is through membership in The 1863 Society, named for the year of the university's founding. The Society celebrates those donors whose annual or planned giving makes an important difference to UMass Amherst.

The 1863 Society

The 1863 Society recognizes donors who have made significant gifts to further the mission of UMass Amherst by ensuring every student is offered the finest education and research activities are of the highest caliber.

Levels of Recognition

Founders Circle – lifetime giving
Distinguished Benefactor – $5,000,000 total lifetime gifts or irrevocable planned gifts
Distinguished Patron – $1,000,000 total lifetime gifts or irrevocable planned gifts
Distinguished Fellow – $500,000 total lifetime gifts or irrevocable planned gifts
Distinguished Associate – $250,000 total lifetime gifts or irrevocable planned gifts

Chancellor’s Circle – annual giving
Benefactor – $250,000+
Patron – $100,000–$249,999
Fellow – $25,000–$99,999
Associate– $10,000–$24,999

Deans Circle – annual giving
Partner – $5,000–$9,999
Sponsor – $2,500-$4,999
Member – $1,000–$2,499
Affiliate – Young alumni donors – $250 for 5 most recent class years, $500 for 6-10 most recent class years

The William Smith Clark Society – recognizing donors who make planned gifts or bequests.