Frequently Asked Questions

For more information contact...

Chris Decent, Assistant Vice President for  Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving

(904) 620-2131 -c.decent@unf.edu

Click on the any bulleted item below for more information.

Since you asked...

• What does University Development and Alumni Engagement do?
  Our role in University Development and Alumni Engagement is to reach out to the community and increase awareness of this University and the students we serve. In addition, the division raises resources that benefit students and faculty. We coordinate campaigns that help the University provide a range of benefits, including scholarships, new technology, facilities, faculty improvements and special programs.
• Can I designate where my donation goes?
  Yes. The dollars can be unrestricted, allowing the university to use the funds for the greatest need on campus, or restricted to a designation you specify, such as a current scholarship fund, department, organization or a specific college.
• What's the difference between a restricted and an unrestricted gift?
  If you make a restricted (or designated) gift, you can direct your contribution to a specific scholarship, academic program or any other special need. If you make an unrestricted gift, one with no restrictions on its use, you give the university the ability to apply funds where students need them most, including taking advantage of unexpected opportunities and meeting unforeseen challenges.
• Will I receive tax benefits for my gift?
  Yes, in most cases, the University's supporters can deduct gifts from their taxes. Besides making direct, one-time contributions, you also might want to consider the long-term tax and estate-planning benefits of giving through annuities, trusts and other financial tools.
• Can I make a gift in honor or memory of someone?
  Yes. As a tribute to a friend, colleague, mentor, family member or anyone else, you can give in a person's name.
• How do I learn more about matching gift programs?
  Check with the human resources office at your company to see if it offers a matching funds program. More than 1,200 corporations have programs that match employees' gifts to colleges and universities. The State of Florida also offers a matching gift program. For more details go to our matching gift program page.
• What is planned giving?
  It's an arrangement to make a contribution to UNF, usually in the future. Annuities, trusts and bequests in a will are examples of planned gifts. For more information go to our Life income gifts (trust/annuities) page.
• What is an outright gift?
  It's an immediate, direct contribution, usually of cash, real estate or securities.
• Are all gifts useful?
  Yes, every gift makes a difference, no matter the size.
• Can I make a gift online?
  Yes. It's quick and easy. Go to our give now page.