"Common Cents"

While students are the beneficiaries of annual giving, they also do their part to strengthen the University with gifts during their time at U of M. “Common Cents”, the student giving program at the University of Memphis was created to provide students with the opportunity to make a contribution to the University and to help students understand the role that private support plays in sustaining the U of M.  Our goal is to set an example for students and future alumni by demonstrating early the importance of giving back  We encourage you to visit this site often to learn how even a few “Cents” can benefit the “Common” good for all students here at the University of Memphis.

Why should students give back to the U of M?

Many people think that the combination of student tuition and state appropriations are what keep the University running each year.  The truth is, only a portion of the annual budget comes from tuition and state funding. The remaining revenue must be generated through competitive grants, sales, and the loyal support of alumni, friends, parents and students.

By making a gift to the University of Memphis, students help determine what programs or projects they would like to see enhanced. All students should learn the concept of "paying it forward" because we all have been helped by someone to get to where we are today. What better way to leave your legacy than helping future University of Memphis students! Make your gift today.

Did you know?

• Increase the value of your degree. Private Financial Support is one of the factors U.S. News and World Report uses to rank Colleges and Universities.
• Every gift adds up. Do the math: If 1/3 of the student body gave just $10, that support alone would fund ANNUAL tuition for 6 students.

"What do I get for making a gift?"

Aside from the feeling you get from making a gift, students who participate in the Common Cents program will receive membership into the Common Cents Student Giving Society and will be recognized in the Common Cents Honor Roll.  Each spring those that have made a gift over the course of the school year will be invited to a special luncheon. 

Seniors Leave Your Mark

Seniors, throughout your undergraduate journey you have benefited from the gifts of Friends, Family, and Alumni.  Leave your mark and ensure that future U of M students have the same opportunities that you had.  As part of the Common Cents Program, The Senior Campaign was established to help graduating seniors make the transition from student to alumni.   Seniors are asked to make a gift in honor of their graduation year (i.e. Class of 2010 contributes $20.10).  They are asked to make this gift once during their senior year, and then again during their first year as an alumni.  Seniors that participate in the Senior Campaign will become members of the Common Cents Student Giving Society and will be listed in the Honor Roll. 

Join the Common Cents Council

The Common Cents Council assist the Office of Annual Giving in raising awareness about the impact of private giving at The University of Memphis and promotes annual giving efforts to students. Council members get a first-hand look at fundraising operations for the University and work actively with the Development team on marketing campaigns, events and other activities.

If you are a current student and:

• Have True Blue U of M spirit,
• Want to see enhancements at the U of M,
• Participate in campus activities,
• Are interested in philanthropy,

then you belong on the Common Cents Council. Contact Jonathan Spiceland at jkspclnd@memphis.edu for more information.

Make a gift!

Donations can be made online or mailed to:

Department 238                                                                                                                       The U of M Foundation
PO Box 1000
Memphis, TN 38148

Classroom and Club Presentations

We are ready to spread the word about student giving! Invite us to your club or organization or even to one of your classes. We're excited to inform students about the University of Memphis Student Giving Campaign.

Who can I talk to for more information?

Email us at umannualgiving@memphis.edu.