What is The Society of 1910?

The Society of 1910 is named for the year that Radford College was chartered by the state of Virginia. It recognizes and honors alumni and friends who provide for the Radford University in their estate plan through a bequest or other type of planned gift.  It provides permanent recognition to the donor during his/her lifetime and beyond who has the foresight to believe in the important role that the University has played in their lives and who wish to assist others to enjoy the highest quality education.   The Society enables the donor to see how the University continues to grow as an integral part of the community and State because of his/her gift.

Must the gift be a certain amount?
No! Planned giving can be a means to provide a larger gift than perhaps a donor may be able to consider giving during his or her lifetime. Membership in the Society is based not on the value of the planned gift but on the act of making the gift.

What does membership in the Society mean to the donor?
There can be significant favorable tax benefits to your estate by making a planned gift to the University.  Additionally, Society members are recognized permanently each year at the Partners in Excellence Banquet and at other events especially designed for the Society members.  Members receive a special gift designating them as Society of 1910 members that they can display in their homes or offices.    Most important, you will have the satisfaction of knowing you will be providing permanent financial support for the University, its students and academic programs.  It is a legacy of which you can be especially proud. 
*Please check with your financial and legal advisors for potential tax benefits.

How difficult is it to become a member of the Society of 1910?
It is very easy. If you are preparing your estate plans, simply designate in your Will that the Radford University Foundation, Inc. (Tax Identification Number #22-7219782) is a beneficiary for the benefit of Radford University .  If you have a Will already, a codicil can be easily added.  You also can designate the specific program that is to benefit by your gift, such as scholarships, a particular department in the College, the McConnell Library, etc.  We will be happy to discuss with you the variety of opportunities at the University that can benefit from your gift.

Can I use my own bank or investment firm to manage a planned gift to the Radford University Foundation?
Yes! You can use any financial institution or trustee to manage your planned gift or estate. The trustee will forward the proceeds from the planned gift to the Foundation to meet the purpose you designate.  Of course, the Radford University Foundation has an excellent record of managing the institution’s endowment and will be happy to provide that service to you at no charge.

Will my contributions to the Annual Fund be counted toward Society membership?
No. Only persons who make a planned or estate gift commitment to the Radford University Foundation can qualify for membership in The Society of 1910.  By making an estate or planned gift to Radford University , you are making the ultimate gift that any of us can make to support quality education in perpetuity.  Other donor recognition clubs recognize annual giving donors.

How can I learn more about The Society of 1910?
The staff at the Radford University Foundation will be happy to assist you and your advisors with information, sample gift benefit illustrations, and other information to help you make an informed decision.  There is no obligation and all requests are treated as confidential information. You may contact the professionals at University Advancement, 540-831-5108.