Ways to Give


At JWU, every gift makes a difference. Whether you’re an alum, parent or friend of the university, you can support JWU in many ways — choose the method of giving that is best for you: one-time or recurring gifts, endowments, planned giving and more. Whichever way you choose to give, your generosity helps shape the future of our students.

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Two individuals wearing headbands hold a handmade sign that reads "LET'S GO JWU" in blue and yellow letters.

One-Time Gifts

Your gift can make an immediate impact. It’s quick and easy to make a gift using our secure online forms, by phone or by mail.

Johnson & Wales University
ATTN: Advancement & University Relations
8 Abbott Park Place
Providence, RI 02903
401-598-2185

Recurring Gifts

Give consistently through direct debit, credit card or participating employee payroll deduction programs. Set up a monthly or annual recurring gift using our online giving forms.

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A crowd of young people at a sports event cheer enthusiastically, raising their hands and phones in excitement.
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Named Funds

For a gift or pledge of $25,000, you can establish a named fund designated for the people and programs you are most passionate about. Replenish the fund regularly or allow it to be fully distributed as needed.

Endowments

Your gift or pledge of $50,000 or more can be endowed to support JWU in perpetuity. Through strategic investing, the permanent principal of the fund generates interest every year — creating long-term stability for your chosen JWU college or program.

Planned Giving

Including JWU in your estate is one way to provide meaningful, lasting support while meeting your own philanthropic and personal goals. 

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Charlotte Epicurean Scholarship Society

The Epicurean Scholarship Society was established in Charlotte in 2008 and provides scholarship support to hard-working and dedicated JWU students who will become experts and industry leaders.

Members enjoy two annual culinary experiences curated by guest chefs with assistance from JWU students and faculty. Culinary demonstrations, receptions, seated dinners and cocktail gatherings bring members together to celebrate culinary excellence and learn about the impact of scholarships on JWU’s Charlotte Campus.

JWU Giving Societies

At Johnson & Wales University, every donor makes a difference. Giving societies recognize donors who have committed to the university through consecutive giving, leadership giving, planned giving and athletics support.

Giving society members receive specialized communications and event invitations, ensuring that members are in-the-know about all things Johnson & Wales and the impact of philanthropy.

Forever JWU Society

The Forever JWU Society recognizes donors who support the JWU Fund and scholarship funds — two of JWU’s most urgent priorities with immediate impact on students. Make an annual leadership gift to one of these funds to become a member. 

Founder Circle: Gifts of $1,914 to $2,499
Honors JWU’s founders, Gertrude Johnson and Mary Wales, whose vision laid the foundation for the university we know today. 

Alumni who graduated within the last 10 years can join with a smaller gift:

  • 0-4 years from graduation: Gifts of $100 or more
  • 5-9 years from graduation: Gifts of $500 or more

Epicurean Circle: Gifts of $2,500 to $4,999
Honors JWU’s legacy of culinary excellence and innovation. 

Entrepreneur Circle: Gifts of $5,000 to $9,999
Honors the university’s beginnings as a business school and its evolution into the renowned College of Hospitality & Business.  

Vanguard Circle: Gifts of $10,000 to $49,999
Honors the students, faculty and alumni who are at the forefront of delivering community-oriented, holistic care. 

Philosopher Circle: Gifts of $50,000 and above
Honors the commitment to learning and growth that motivates all learners at Johnson & Wales. 

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Mary & Gertrude Society

The Mary & Gertrude Society recognizes donors who support JWU for three or more consecutive years — with a gift of any size, to any area you’re passionate about.  

Wildcat Society

The Wildcat Society recognizes the athletics supporters who cheer on our teams from practice to game day. Make a gift of $250 or more to any athletics fund at JWU and become a member. Go Blue & Gold! 

1914 Society

The 1914 Society recognizes donors who’ve included JWU in their estate plans through a will, trust, life insurance policy, retirement plan or other means. If you’ve included JWU in your estate plan, you’re automatically inducted into this exclusive group of alumni and friends.

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Memorial and Tribute Gifts on Campus

Naming a tree, bench or garden is a meaningful way to support Johnson & Wales University while remembering family and friends, expressing appreciation or celebrating a milestone. For more information, please contact us at 401-598-2185 or contact@giving.jwu.edu.