MSRI Alumni & Development FAQ

First, we ask that you consider an Annual gift which will be recognized through the Archimedes Society. These funds will go toward annual operating expenses of the Institute and help us compete for large foundation grants. Giving is easy. You can even give a monthly gift from your credit card. Regardless of its size --$5 per month to $1,000 per month-- it will help and will be greatly appreciated.

Second, remember MSRI in your will or living trust. Many of us are able to make gifts this way that just would not be possible during our lifetimes. Consider making MSRI the beneficiary of a 401(k) or other qualified retirement account. This also happens to be a very tax efficient way to give. See the Planned Giving section of our web site for more information.

Lastly, some individuals will be able to participate in upcoming campaigns for buildings and endowment. Campaigns usually solicit gifts in the $25,000 to $1,000,000 range, but MSRI is planning its campaigns to be more inclusive. Campaigns can raise many millions, typically for large building projects.

Including MSRI in your philanthropy will make a tremendous difference.

I didn't know that MSRI needed support. When did this happen?
As a condition of grant renewal at the end of this funding cycle, the NSF is requiring us to show that we can raise additional money to complement their funding. MSRI was founded with and continues to receive substantial operating grants from the NSF and other government agencies. The need for additional support has happened over the last five years. The need for building maintenance and more and better space has simply increased with time. This type of expenditure has never been within the guidelines of the NSF. The need for independence from federal sources of funding has increasingly been on our minds. When federal priorities change, or NSF funding is threatened we realize how vulnerable we are.

Why should I give to MSRI?
It is difficult for anyone to tell you how to give your philanthropic dollar. We suggest examining what you value. Look at the organizations with which you've come into contact and that have been meaningful to you. If the importance of independent scientific inquiry, the love of mathematics, providing opportunity to others or other values that MSRI embraces are yours too, then you may well find supporting MSRI to be a very satisfying experience.

What are MSRI's priorities?
Operational support for senior scholars, travel & support for postdocs, and funds to bring everyone together in Chern Hall.

Second, gifts of endowment to the Institute will make it possible for us to do many of the things about which we now dream. Visiting scholars, support for members and post docs beyond federal limitations, and ongoing independence and security for the Institute will all come with establishment of a permanent MSRI endowment.

Is information on this site tax advice?
MSRI Development and Alumni Relations web pages are not intended as tax advice. Know that individual financial circumstances require specific professional guidance. Please contact your legal and financial advisors to see how these general issues apply to you.