George Mason University

University Development

University Recognition Societies

Appreciating Your Support

Whether you give to the university as a whole or direct your donation to a school or other academic unit, a research center, department, or specific initiative, you can become a member of one or more of our recognition societies. For gifts of $10,000 and above, naming opportunities are also available for individuals and organizations, as well as for corporations and foundations.

Mason's philanthropic history is recorded through the names of individuals who have been the university's most generous benefactors. These donors—from the creation of the George Mason University Foundation in 1966 to the present—are recognized through the George Mason Society. Membership reflects cumulative gifts, including pledge payments, and is tiered at five levels:

  • Distinguished Laureate: $3 million and above
  • Laureate: $1 million to $2.9 million
  • Distinguished Patriot: $500,000 to $999,999
  • Patriot: $250,000 to $499,999
  • Member: $100,000 to $249,999

Individuals whose generosity to Mason totals $1,000 and more received during the fiscal year* are recognized through the President's Circle, the university's most prestigious annual giving society. Both gifts and pledge payments qualify donors for membership, which is tiered at eight levels:

  • Senior Benefactor: $100,000 and above
  • Benefactor: $50,000 to $99,999
  • Patron: $25,000 to $49,999
  • Sponsor: $10,000 to $24,999
  • Colleague: $5,000 to $9,999
  • Associate: $2,500 to $4,999
  • Member: $1,000 to $2,499
  • GOLD (see below):
    $500 to $999

The generosity of our newest graduates is recognized through the GOLD (Graduates of the Last Decade) Circle, which is part of the President's Circle. Members are alumni awarded their baccalaureate during the decade prior to the current fiscal year and who make gifts and pledge payments totaling $500 to $999, received during the fiscal year.*

Individuals who have made provisions for deferred or planned gifts are recognized through the Legacy Society. Qualifying gifts include life income arrangements, bequests, and life insurance policies in which the university is owner and beneficiary.

The continued loyal support of our alumni who give $10+ consecutively for five or more fiscal years* is recognized through the Proud Patriot Society.

*July 1 - June 30

Contact us for more information about how you can become a member of one or more of Mason's recognition societies.

Please note: Recognition in the President's Circle, GOLD Circle, and Proud Patriot Society is based on gifts received during the fiscal year (July 1-June 30).