Parents' Steering Committee

The generosity of parents has always played an important role in enhancing the Colgate experience. As we enter the University’s third century in pursuit of bold and ambitious goals, parent support is more critical than ever before.

Colgate’s leadership among the nation’s finest liberal arts institutions depends on its ability to attract exceptional students, produce ground-breaking research, and offer superior educational opportunities. Your support will help the University to provide an even more rigorous academic experience that will strengthen its reputation and the power of a Colgate diploma.

Member Benefits

  • Access to University leaders at two on campus meetings per academic year
  • Opportunities to connect with other members and university leaders at regional and on campus events
  • Assistance with housing in Hamilton on select weekends such as Family Weekend and Commencement
  • Reserved seating at select events on campus
  • Personal support and communications from staff

The Colgate Parents' Steering Committee is a community of parents and grandparents who strengthen the University’s distinctive brand of excellence through their significant philanthropic support. These families deepen their relationship with Colgate and other members, while making an important impact on campus.

We invite you to join the Parents’ Steering Committee with a commitment of $65,000 or more, payable over four years. $5,000 of your gift will be allocated to a Commencement Fund in your student’s Senior year. The remainder of your gift will be directed to the Colgate Fund.

Our hope is that each PSC family will make an additional Campaign commitment beyond this initial gift. PSC families are connected with a member of the Colgate staff who will work with you to explore additional Campaign initiatives where you may wish to make an impact.

To learn more or to discuss joining the Parents' Steering Committee, contact Jen Stone, Associate Vice President Alumni and Parent Giving, at jstone@colgate.edu or 315-228-6928.

Your Gift at Work

Each year, Colgate relies on the collective generosity of thousands of alumni, families, and friends to elevate the Colgate experience from excellent to extraordinary. Gifts to the Colgate Fund benefit every student and every program on campus. Your support for the Colgate Fund makes it possible for students from all backgrounds to access a Colgate education, for faculty to create transformative experiences, and for the University to achieve its ambitious Third-Century goals.

Held each year during graduation weekend, the Senior Torchlight Procession brings Colgate graduates from the academic quad down to Taylor Lake in a vivid pageant that culminates their Colgate experience. The brass torches carried in the procession are gifted as keepsakes to the senior class thanks to the generosity of Colgate families. Your PSC gift will ensure that the torches can continue to be proudly displayed in the homes and offices of Colgate alumni for years to come.

The Commencement Fund also supports new traditions like the Senior Sunset reception, hosted at President Casey’s house. Moments like these form indelible memories for our graduates and strengthen their connection to Colgate as they go out into the world.