The 1847 Society: Questions & Answers

Membership in The 1847 Society is extended to UI alumni and friends who arrange a deferred gift -- for example, through a bequest or trust -- through the UI Foundation (regardless of the size of the gift). There is no other requirement or obligation.

The 1847 Society recognizes the method of giving, not the size of gift. It is possible to be a member of The 1847 Society and also arrange an outright or deferred gift in an amount appropriate to qualify for other honor clubs whose members are recognized by the UI Foundation.

Members receive an attractive certificate of appreciation, informational updates from the UI Foundation on legal and tax changes that may affect estate planning, and recognition in periodic UI Foundation or constituent-based honor rolls of contributors, if they choose.

The UI Foundation acknowledges that any revocable gift plan may change in the future. The 1847 Society provides recognition for your current intention to support the mission of The University of Iowa.

It's not necessary to do so, but it can be helpful. For example, all estate planning documents should use the Foundation's full, legal title -- The State University of Iowa Foundation -- to ensure that your eventual gift will come through the University's preferred channel for private support and will be used according to your wishes.*

(Click here for more information about why the University prefers that all bequests be channeled through the UI Foundation.)

Because wills, trusts, and other documents are legally binding, the purpose must be clearly stated, or the document could create a gift that does not follow your intentions or support the University's mission. Sharing your plans can help to maximize the benefits from your eventual gift.

You may wish to share a copy of only a portion of your estate planning document, or you may describe your gift on The 1847 Society "Statement of Intent" form. UI Foundation staff are available to consult with you and your professional advisor. Our goal is to ensure that your estate document uses the correct legal title of the UI Foundation and that we understand and will be able to carry out your wishes.


* The Iowa Law School Foundation, which predates the UI Foundation and supports the College of Law, also functions as a nonprofit organization with its own board of directors. All gifts it receives are processed through the UI Foundation, and all Law School Foundation contributors are recognized as contributors to the UI Foundation as well.