The WSU Foundation Donor Recognition Program is evolving to better honor the generosity and impact of our extraordinary supporters and friends. With a renewed focus on fostering community, engagement, and gratitude, these improvements will deepen connections to Washington State University while celebrating our supporters’ ongoing impact at WSU and in the communities it serves.
More than name changes—the new approach is about honoring the spirit of generosity that powers WSU and building a donor recognition experience that reflects the heart and soul of the Cougar community, one rooted in gratitude, connection, and impact.
The refreshed giving societies include updated recognition levels, logos, induction criteria, benefits, and a streamlined qualification process across university teams and units. The changes will debut on July 1, 2025.
Introducing Butch’s Club and the 1890 Legacy Society
As part of the WSU giving society transformation, Butch’s Club will replace the former President Associates society. This new society will recognize individuals and households demonstrating exceptional annual commitment to WSU. Butch’s Club will welcome donors who provide cumulative annual gifts of $2,500 or more, along with recent alumni (graduates within the last five years) who have contributed at least $1,000.
Additionally, the current planned giving society, Legacy Associates, will become the 1890 Legacy Society. Named in honor of the university’s founding year, the 1890 Legacy Society will continue to celebrate those who have included WSU in their testamentary planning. While the name has changed, the qualifications will remain the same, ensuring lasting recognition for those shaping WSU’s future through estate and life-income gifts.
Refreshing Benefactors and Laureates levels
The WSU Foundation is also introducing new distinction levels within the lifetime giving societies, Benefactors and Laureates. Benefactors—formerly a standalone group honoring individuals and households whose cumulative giving has reached $100,000 or more—will now include Silver and Crimson Benefactor levels. Silver Benefactors will recognize supporters who have given $250,000 – $499,999, while Crimson Benefactors will recognize supporters who have given $500,000 and more. Laureates will remain reserved for individuals and households who have given $1 million or more, with special tailored recognition for those reaching the $5 million and $10 million milestones.
Looking ahead
As part of the giving society overhaul, the WSU Foundation is also reviewing how it recognizes existing diamond-level donors and loyalty giving, ensuring that our most steadfast supporters receive the appreciation and acknowledgment they deserve. Additionally, the Heritage Society will be retired as the foundation refines its engagement strategy.
These updates reflect WSU’s enduring commitment to celebrating the people who power the university while strengthening the lifelong connections that make the Cougar community so unique. Whether through annual giving, estate planning, or transformational gifts, these new giving societies will provide meaningful recognition and engagement for those who invest in WSU’s future.
“At WSU, philanthropy is about people—Cougs helping Cougs, and strengthening our communities together,” says Mike Connell, vice president for advancement and CEO of the WSU Foundation. “Our refreshed recognition program will highlight the real-world impact of our donors’ generosity and celebrate the people who help WSU thrive.”
To learn more about these changes and how you can make an impact, visit foundation.wsu.edu or contact the WSU Foundation’s Donor Relations and Stewardship team.