1. Why does Georgia College need private funds? Isn't it a state school?
Yes, Georgia College is indeed a state school but receives only a fraction of its budget from the state. Private funds allow the university to continue gaining national recognition as a public liberal arts university.

2. Can I designate where I want my gift to go?
Yes, you can direct where you want your gift to make the most impact. Here are a few of the more popular areas of giving:

• Heritage Fund
  The Heritage Fund is what's known as the unrestricted fund. Gifts to the Heritage Fund provide funding for critical areas such as: student scholarships, improved academic facilities, state-of-the-art classroom technology and support for both faculty and student research.
  
• Annual Scholarship Fund
  Since becoming Georgia's public liberal arts university Georgia College has climbed to number three in the University System of Georgia for average freshmen SAT scores. Increasing the scholarship opportunities at Georgia College allows us to continue to recruit and retain Georgia best and brightest students.
  
• Academic Areas
  Those generous donors that chose to support one of the four schools that comprise Georgia College are allowing these schools to bolster the academic offerings provided to our students and the resources available to our excellent faculty. Gift opportunities are available in the following areas:

  College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
  J. Whitney Bunting College of Business
  John H. Lounsbury College of Education
  College of Health Sciences
  

• Athletics
  The Georgia College Department of Athletics sponsors 10 varsity athletic programs at the NCAA Division II level. As a Division II program, GC prides itself on balancing the life of the student-athlete, evidenced by the Bobcats' multiple appearances in post-season competition as well as documented academic success and community-service involvement. Follow the Bobcats and their positive impact on the Milledgeville community at http://www.gcsubobcats.com/ .
  

3. What is an endowment?
An endowment is established with a minimum of $10,000. This fund will generate interest income in perpetuity to provide financial support for the area of the donor's choosing. Currently, endowments support a number of areas, including scholarships, library improvements, professorships and study abroad. The principal of the endowment is never spent, thus ensuring that the gift's impact will continue throughout the life of Georgia College.

4. How can I include Georgia College in my will?
There are a number of ways that you can include Georgia College in your will. For more information on how you can become a member of the Legacy Society visit our online Planned Giving guide.

5. What is a matching gift?
Double -- or even triple -- your gift to Georgia College. Many companies will match dollar-for-dollar, and in some cases double or triple, charitable gifts made by their employees.

The process for submitting a matching gift request differs from company to company. Contact your company's human resources officer or check their Web site to find out what your options are.

6. Is my gift tax deductible?
All gifts to Georgia College are tax deductible as prescribed by law. In addition, gifts such as bequests and other forms of planned gifts can yield considerable tax benefits for donors. For more information on the tax advantages of various planned gifts, visit our online planned giving guide.

7. How can I make a joint gift with my spouse?
When you make your gift, include your spouse's name and indicate that you would like for the two of you to receive joint recognition for the gift.

8. Are naming opportunities available that will allow me to leave a legacy at Georgia College?
The Advancement Office is available to help guide you through our named giving opportunities and the various giving levels. For more information, see Naming Opportunities.