Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What prompted my patient/patient’s family to make this gift?

A: As part of our new effort to engage a larger patient population philanthropically, the Office of Advancement periodically sends email and mail communications to past donors, as well as patients recently seen on the Anschutz Medical Campus. Sometimes these outreaches are specific to a certain area, like Investigator-Initiated Trials, Honoring a Caregiver or a request to the CU Anschutz Fund for Excellence in support of research, education and patient care. There is always an option for the benefactor to add a note, indicating that they would like the gift to be in honor of a faculty member or provider. When they do, we strive to make you aware in a timely manner.

Q: It looks like this gift went to a general fund, can it instead be redirected to me and my research?

A: When a donor responds to a specific request (IITs, Fund for Excellence, etc.), those funds are utilized for larger initiatives. Most faculty members benefit from institutional support in their recruitment, for shared resources, etc. and those funds help provide that institutional support to our leaders so they can make strategic and timely financial decisions.

Q: Why are you notifying me of this gift?

A: Making a gift in honor of a faculty member is one indicator that a benefactor wants to express their immense gratitude for what you have done for them and/or their family. Gifts of all sizes can have great meaning for the individuals who give them. We think it is important for you to acknowledge their gift and let them know how much the sentiment means to you. We would welcome the chance to talk with you about potential future support from this benefactor and create a strategy with you that would directly support your efforts. Further, we often have patients make a gift in honor of a provider and then they will inquire with that provider in a future clinic visit. We want to alert you promptly so that you are never surprised in clinic. Finally, we believe that stewarding donors at all levels is the way that we earn the right to have larger philanthropic conversations in the future.

Q: Will anyone else thank them?

A: Yes. Each donor, regardless of gift size, will receive a thank you letter/tax receipt from the CU Foundation. In addition, many donors will also receive a thank you call from the Office of Advancement and a letter of thanks from the relevant Division/Department/Center/School/College/Campus leader(s).

Q: How will I know when philanthropic gifts are made in my honor, or for my use? Does anyone else in my unit receive this information from the Office of Advancement?

A: The Office of Advancement sends a weekly report to financial administrators across the campus alerting them of new gifts to gift funds within their areas. You can always connect with your unit’s financial representative for more information.

Q: I have other questions about this. Who do I ask?

A: Please contact your Advancement representative.