More than 500 households are Associates in Discipleship--key partners in EMU's unique educational mission. To make up the difference between the total cost of education and tuition, we depend greatly on the generosity and vision of Associates. Your trust and commitment challenge us to be faithful followers of Christ as we educate tomorrow's leaders.

During fiscal year 2006-07, more than 60 households contributed at least $5,000 to the University Fund. The commitment of these President's Partners is vital to the future of Eastern Mennonite University.

Associates in Discipleship at the Sustainer level commit themselves to be advocates for EMU in their communities and make an annual financial contribution of at least $1,000.

In order to achieve our goal each year for the University Fund, we are emphasizing the impact of $1,000-plus gifts. We view this commitment not as an obligation, but as a desire to support the university in a very meaningful way, as you are able. More than 300 households, two-thirds of which are alumni, give $1,000 or more annually to the University Fund.

By joining this group of supporters, or by becoming an Associate Partner at the level of $500 or more, you are assisting students who are preparing to serve the church and broader society. EMU now provides $6.2-million annually in financial aid to students. By building support for the University Fund, we seek to lessen the impact of a low endowment - a reality that confronts many small colleges. Our interest in keeping EMU affordable is what drives our efforts to encourage unrestricted, annual giving through the University Fund.

We pledge to keep our Associates well informed about EMU campus happenings through semi-annual mailings and personal visits with our associate directors of development. The counsel we receive from you helps shape EMU's distinctive approach to Anabaptist Christian education. You will also be invited to attend the annual Donor Appreciation Banquet that is held on Friday evening during Homecoming Weekend each fall.

Thank you for believing in the faculty and staff of Eastern Mennonite University, and especially, for believing in the young adults who are at the heart of our mission.

Ways to Make an Associates Gift

There are multiple ways to give as an Associate. Here are some options:

• once a year, with cash or gifts of stock, in the month of your choice
• twice a year or quarterly; we can send reminder letters to you on the month(s) that you prefer to give
• A secure online giving form is available for one-time credit card donations, and with a few additional steps, you can set up a monthly donation to EMU via a credit or debit card
  

To request reminder letters, or to get details on the giving options mentioned above, call the Development Office at (540) 432-4200 or 1-800-368-3383, or send an email to

EMU's fiscal year ends on June 30.