Endowment FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Endowments
Support what matters most—now and for future generations.
What is an endowment?
An endowment is a lasting gift that is invested to support Texas Woman’s University in perpetuity. The original contribution (called the principal) remains intact, while a portion of the earnings is used each year to support scholarships, programs, faculty, or other university priorities.
Why are endowments important?
Endowments provide long-term, dependable funding. They:
- Sustain student scholarships and academic excellence
- Reduce reliance on tuition and state funds
- Help ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ plan for the future
- Honor the legacy and values of our generous supporters
What does it take to create an endowment?
A named endowment at ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ starts with a minimum gift or pledge of $25,000.
You may fund your endowment through:
- A one-time gift
- A multi-year pledge (typically 3–5 years)
- A planned gift through your estate or retirement assets
Our team will work with you to tailor a giving plan that fits your goals.
What can my endowment support?
You can choose to support what’s most meaningful to you, including:
- Scholarships for students
- Academic programs or colleges
- Faculty excellence and research
- Student life and leadership programs
- Areas of greatest need as determined by ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ leadership
Can I name an endowment?
Yes. Endowments can be named in honor or memory of a loved one, mentor, or family member—or in your own name. Named endowments create a lasting legacy and are recognized in ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ publications and donor communications.
How are endowments invested?
Your gift is invested through the ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ Foundation’s professionally managed portfolio.
²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ uses a conservative spending policy (typically 4–5%) to distribute earnings each year. The rest of the earnings are reinvested, helping the fund grow over time and support ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ’s mission well into the future.
When does an endowment begin making an impact?
Once your fund reaches the $25,000 threshold, it begins generating income. Distributions typically begin in the following fiscal year.
Can I include an endowment in my will or estate plan?
Yes. Many supporters choose to establish or enhance an endowment through:
- A bequest in their will
- A retirement plan or insurance beneficiary designation
- A charitable trust or life income gift
Will I know the impact of my gift?
Yes. Donors receive an annual endowment report detailing:
- The financial performance of their fund
- How the distributions were used
- Updates on the students or programs they support (when applicable)
You’ll also receive invitations to ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½¹ÙÍøÏÂÔØ events and recognition opportunities.
Can I give to an existing endowment?
Absolutely. You can make a gift of any size to an existing endowment that reflects your interests. Many donors continue to contribute to their endowments over time to increase their annual impact.
How do I get started?
Let’s talk. Our advancement team is here to match your interests with university priorities, help you create a named endowment or contribute to an existing one, and provide gift planning options that meet your needs.
Questions?
Contact us at giving@twu.edu or call 940-898-3894.