Circle of 1849

Like most colleges and universities, William Jewell provides special recognition to individuals who make substantial contributions to the College.  Beginning in the 2004-2005 academic year, the Circle of 1849 honors William Jewell's highest level of annual giving donors.

Any donor to the Jewell Fund is eligible for Circle of 1849 membership with a gift totaling $1,000 or more during a single fiscal year (July 1 through June 30).  This includes any matching gifts made by companies who provide this benefit to its employees.

Named for the year of William Jewell College's founding, the Circle of 1849 is the College's premier giving society.  Circle of 1849 members are as significant to William Jewell's future as that landmark date is to the College's rich history.

The Circle of 1849 recognizes alumni, parents, and friends who play a leadership role in supporting William Jewell College.  Circle of 1849 members provide a powerful and flexible source of funding for the President and Trustees to enhance student financial aid, build innovative academic programs, recruit and retain exceptional faculty, and much more.

Comprising the Circle of 1849 are five separate clubs, each representing a different level of giving.

Legacy Club ($25,000 and more) recognizes those extraordinary donors whose commitment to the mission of the College not only leaves behind their own legacy, but carries on the legacy of Jewell's original philnathropists.

Benefactors Club (10,000 - $24,999) recognizes those who are committed to enhancing the reputation and influence of William Jewell College by providing substantial financial support.

Founders Club ($5,000 - $9,999) is named for the original four founders of the College who promoted the cause of "a college among us" in Missouri River valley churches in the late 1830's.

Investors Club ($2,500 - $4,999) is in honor of those who recognize the great returns that come from investing in the future of William Jewell College.

President's Club ($1,000 - $2,499) recognizes those generour donors who support the College with leadership gifts, displaying a commitment to the President's vision for William Jewell College.

Because all Jewell Fund gifts are 100 percent tax deductible, a Circle of 1849 gift does not entitle donors to any special privileges -- just to William Jewell's lasting gratitude! However, we do celebrate all first-time members of the Circle of 1849 through the placement of a brick bearing their name in the walkway encircling the Quad. Members are also honored at an annual reception each fall where we recognize our most significant Jewell Fund supporters. As memberships are created or renewed, all Circle of 1849 members receive regular Jewell updates and invitations to campus events such as the Perspectives on the Common Good lecture series, the City Come Again Christmas celebration, and the David Nelson Undergraduate Colloquium Day.

Click here for more details about membership in the Circle of 1849 or click here to become a Circle of 1849 member by making your Jewell Fund gift on-line.