Frequently Asked Questions
What impact do alumni and graduate giving/gift participation have on how our law school is perceived in the legal community?
Without private support, the Law School would struggle to maintain its national ranking. Additionally, the level of alumni participation is important. High alumni participation on an annual basis is a strong message to prospective students, faculty, and peer institutions, that William & Mary Law School’s graduates are loyal and that their law school’s continued success is a priority. Support for the Law School is an investment in the future of legal education and in the value of your degree from Marshall-Wythe. Every gift makes a difference!
The Law School is state-supported. Why should I give?
The Law School receives approximately 8% of its budget from the Commonwealth of Virginia. While this support is important, it does not bridge the gap between the cost of a top legal education and current tuition. To attract great applicants, we seek to keep tuition low, while retaining excellent teaching faculty. This is why your support is so vital!
What is the difference between a gift and a pledge?
1. Outright gift—A one-time gift made prior to graduation.
2. Pledge—Pledges are multi-year commitments over the next three years.
- Pledges encourage annual support of William & Mary Law School and cultivate a habit of giving.
- By making a pledge and making annual payments, you will not be solicited for any further gifts over the next three years.
- Pledges and gifts count toward your class participation goal.
Are gifts and pledges tax-deductible?
When you give a cash gift to the Law School, it is deductible for that year.
Do employers match gifts and pledges? If so, how can I approach mine?
Some companies and firms encourage their employees to make charitable contributions by matching their philanthropic support. Matching gifts can double, or even triple, your impact on the Law School. Contact the Office of Development & Alumni Affairs to find out if your company has a matching gift policy.
How can I make a gift or pledge? And how long do I have to make a gift or pledge?
For your gift or pledge to count for your class participation goal, it must be submitted before graduation. You can make your gift or pledge today! GIFT or PLEDGE
What is the Dean's Council level of Giving?
Recent Law Graduates are invited to join the Young Dean's Council at a reduced gift level. (see below) Any 3L making an annual gift or pledge of $1,000 will be invited to this year's Dean's Council Reception in April! Members receive a pewter cup as well as invitations to the annual fall Dean’s Council Dinner and the annual spring Dean’s Council Reception during Alumni Weekend.
Reserved for Law Alumni who completed their degrees in the past decade:
| Giving Levels | Years Since Graduation |
| $1,000 | Alumni 1 - 4 years since graduation |
| $1,500 | Alumni 5 - 7 years since graduation |
| $2,000 | Alumni 8 - 9 years since graduation |
| $2,500 | Alumni 10+ years since graduation |