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1794 Society

What is the 1794 Society?

The 1794 Society recognizes individuals who contribute leadership gifts to the Alumni Fund each year. These leadership donors are among the alumni/ae who know Bowdoin best and have supported the college year after year, steering the College successfully through each new challenge.Each year 1794 Society donors provide approximately 84% of the Alumni Fund dollar total. These gifts have an immediate impact in helping meet the increasing cost of educating Bowdoin students. Without the ongoing support from 1794 Society donors the College would need nearly $100 million in additional endowment to continue operating.

There are seven 1794 Society gift levels:

President’s Associates Alumni Fund gift of $100,000 and above
Joseph McKeen Associates $50,000 - $99,999
Harriett Beecher Stowe Associates $25,000 - $49,999
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain Associates $10,000 - $24,999
Kenneth C.M. Sills Associates $5,000 - $9,999
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Associates $2,500 – $4, 999
Nathaniel Hawthorne Associates $1,000 – $2,499
Classes 5-9 years post-graduation $500 - $2,499
Classes 1-4 years post-graduation $100 - $2,499

What are the benefits of the 1794 Society?

Through the 1794 Society Bowdoin recognizes the critical Alumni Fund contributions of its most generous donors. In appreciation for their leadership support, all members of the 1794 Society are invited to a winter reception in New York City hosted by the President and Trustees of the College. Donors at the Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Associate level and above receive an exclusive piece of Bowdoin memorabilia.Harriett Beecher Stowe Associates and above are invited to an intimate, regional dinner with the President. All first time 1794 Society donors are personally thanked for their important gifts.