Annual Fund FAQs
What is the Annual Fund?
The Dominican Annual Fund is made up of thousands of gifts each fiscal year from the university’s loyal alumnae/i, parents, students, faculty, staff and friends.

In 2010-2011, gifts from nearly 3,000 donors added up to over $700,000 in operating support. These contributions directly benefit Dominican students with scholarships and financial aid awards, course development, student research projects, service learning, study abroad programs, equipment and library material purchases and so much more.

Is it really important to support the Annual Fund each and every year?
Actually, yes, because the Annual Fund goes toward operating support and helps the university meet its recurring financial obligations. What’s more, having a robust Annual Fund allows Dominican to react nimbly to today’s fast-changing and challenging economic climate.

Why does every gift matter?
All gifts to Dominican’s Annual Fund—regardless of size—are an expression of support for the university’s mission and continued financial health. Each gift enhances the Dominican experience for today’s students and encourages them to make their own impact on the world.

Why does the percentage of alumnae/i giving matter?
Participation in the annual fund is a strong indication of alumnae/i satisfaction. Accordingly, foundation and government funders consider alumni participation levels when deciding whether to support Dominican. Also, alumnae/i participation is a factor in U.S. News and World Report rankings, so together, alumnae/i can make a differences.

I did not receive financial aid when I attended Dominican. Why should I contribute to the Annual Fund?
The true cost of providing a Dominican education exceeds tuition so, in effect, every student who attends receives the benefit of having the Annual Fund make up the shortfall between tuition and what the university pays to provide a first-rate education.

I went to graduate school at Dominican and already give to my undergraduate alma mater. Why should I support Dominican, too?
Your graduate work at Dominican shaped you into the skilled professional you are today. It is timely and appropriate to acknowledge the university’s role in your professional life by giving to the Dominican Annual Fund. Please consider supporting both your alma maters.

How can I make a gift?
Dominican makes it easy by offering a variety of ways to give. Every page on our University Advancement website allows you to make a gift securely. We also make it easy to learn about other ways to give, such as Planned Giving.

What is the deadline for making a contribution?
Each year's Annual Fund campaign ends on June 30, the end of the university’s fiscal year. Gifts received on July 1 or later will be credited to the following year’s Annual Fund.

To learn more:

Jackelyn Nagel
Jackelyn Nagel
Class of 2013
Presidential Scholarship

"Dominican has provided me with the resources to learn and good friends with whom to share this unique experience. My professors have inspired me to become a teacher myself."