Giving FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

Is a phone call I received asking for support legitimate?
Yes. The Annual Giving team partners with a trained calling team that reaches out to donors on our behalf. Calls come from 410-295-4148 and explain the impact of both unrestricted and restricted support for the U.S. Naval Academy Foundation and the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association.
I received a text message about giving—is it legitimate?
Yes. The same team that makes phone calls also sends text messages to reach alumni and supporters who may not have answered a call. These messages are used for fundraising efforts like the Great Class Challenge, year-end giving reminders and pledge fulfillment.
Who receives the Naval Academy Foundation calendar?
The calendar is a gift to philanthropic donors and plebe parents as a welcome to the Foundation family. If you didn't receive one, it may be due to: a "Do Not Solicit" request on your record; an outdated mailing address; no philanthropic gift made since 1 January 20XX; delays in postal delivery.
Can I use the reply envelope I received, even if it has a Baltimore address?
Yes. The reply envelope directs your donation to our secure lockbox, ensuring your gift is processed quickly and accurately.
Can I mail my gift directly to the Foundation?
Absolutely. Please send checks payable to the U.S. Naval Academy Foundation to: 301 King George Street, Annapolis, MD 21402
Can I give online in response to a mailed appeal?
Yes. You can make an online gift at usna.com/give.
Can I make a donation over the phone?
Yes. Call 410-295-4115 to provide your card information. If no one answers, leave a message and someone will return your call.
How do I know if I qualify for President's Circle?
President's Circle membership is based on cumulative giving within a calendar year: $1,000 for young alumni (graduates within the last 15 years), $2,500 for all others. To check your status, contact Gift Administration at  giftadministration@usna.com or 410-295-4115.
How can I support my class project?
For class giving inquiries, contact Sara Brown at sara.brown@usna.com or 410-295-4130.
Is my gift tax-deductible?
Yes, in most cases. As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Foundation provides tax-deductible giving opportunities. For specific tax questions, contact Gift Administration at giftadministration@usna.com or 410-295-4115.
How do I get a tax receipt for my gift?
To request a receipt or end-of-year tax statement, contact Gift Administration at giftadministration@usna.com or 410-295-4115.
What is the difference between alumni membership and making a donation?
Alumni Association membership provides lifelong benefits such as Shipmate magazine, career services and event access. Foundation donations are tax-deductible contributions that directly support the Naval Academy's mission. While there are no transactional benefits, donors may qualify for certain courtesies based on giving levels.
I'm trying to get in touch with the Annual Giving team. Who should I contact?
Megan Farmer, Director, Annual Giving Programs - megan.farmer@usna.com or 410-295-4188.
Sara Brown, Assistant Director, Class Giving Programs - sara.brown@usna.com or 410-295-4130.
Who do I contact about an Honor Chair?
For Honor Chair inquiries, contact Travis Galaska, Director, Donor Experience & Stewardship at  travis.galaska@usna.com or 410-295-4111.
My company wants to make a philanthropic impact at the Academy. Who should I talk to?
More information on corporate giving is available online. You can also contact Tonya Grant, Director, Corporate and Foundation Relations at tonya.grant@usna.com or 410-295-4108.
I made a gift, but it hasn't been processed yet. What should I do?
For assistance with gift processing, contact Gift Administration at 410-295-4115.
I have a pledge but don't know how much I owe or when it's due. How can I check?
Contact Gift Administration at 410-295-4115 for pledge details.
I want to make a gift with stock. How do I do that?
Instructions for stock transfers are available online under "Securities" information.
Can I make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from my IRA?
Yes. Details on making a QCD gift are available online.
Who do I contact about making a planned or legacy gift?
For information on joining the Robert Means Thompson Society (RMTS), contact the Planned Giving team: Jenn Macris, Director at jennifer.macris@usna.com or 410-295-4105; Mikala Ragin, Administrative Coordinator at mikala.ragin@usna.com or 410-295-4117.