Photo of WSU community members cheering and clapping during a WSU Foundation event.

Donor Recognition

WSU Philanthropic Cougar Community

Private support helps Washington State University realize its full potential as a world-class center for education, research, and outreach. The WSU Foundation is honored to recognize the generous donors who support its mission and the work of its students, faculty, and staff. Through the WSU Foundation Donor Recognition Program, we cultivate a culture of philanthropy by fostering community, engagement, and gratitude among WSU’s most loyal supporters. With sincere appreciation, we recognize donors for their annual gifts, cumulative lifetime contributions, and planned giving commitments. Our personalized approach—including tailored acknowledgments, special events, publications, and ongoing communication—strengthens meaningful connections and deepens donors’ lasting impact on the university.

WSU Donor Recognition Groups

WSU Butch's Club giving society logo

Butch’s Club

Butch’s Club consists of loyal supporters who have made cumulative annual gifts of $2,500 or more across the University. Alumni who have completed degrees within the last five years are recognized for their cumulative annual giving of $1,000 or more.

(Based on total gifts given in a single fiscal year, July 1–June 30)

WSU Benefactors giving society logo

Benefactors

Benefactors recognizes individuals and households starting at $100k. Silver Benefactor ($250k-$499k) and Crimson Benefactor donors ($500k-$999k) will be recognized as individual levels within the Benefactors group. Individuals and households will be recognized for crossing these thresholds.

WSU Laureates giving society logo

Laureates

Laureates is a standalone donor recognition group for individuals and households at $1M+. The Foundation will recognize individuals and households who cross the $5M and $10M thresholds with custom stewardship opportunities. We will not recognize corporations or foundations unless specifically informed they are family operated.

WSU 1890 Legacy giving society logo

1890 Legacy Society

The 1890 Legacy Society recognizes those who have informed us that they have included us in their testamentary planning. 

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