Parent Giving

Support with PURPOSE

For generations, the United States Naval Academy has prepared young men and women to lead with honor, courage, and commitment. This legacy is strengthened every day by those who believe in the power of leadership, service, and shared purpose, including the parents of today’s Brigade.

Federal funds provide a baseline, but they do not cover the full cost of a 21st century Naval Academy education. Private philanthropy fuels the Margin of Excellence, including the programs and experiences that set our midshipmen apart.

From leadership development and academic enrichment to varsity athletics and international study, your support makes the difference.

Your generosity enhances your own midshipman’s experience while shaping opportunities for the entire Brigade.

    SERVE AS AN AMBASSADOR FOR PARENT PHILANTHROPY

    Explore how your giving can make a lasting difference—and how, together, we can ensure the Naval Academy continues to be the nation’s premier source of principled leaders.

    Contact: Karen Hicks, Associate Director of Parent Giving
    karen.hicks@usna.com
    410-295-4119

The Parent Wardroom is a community of engaged parents who lead by example, giving at the Leadership Annual Giving level in support of the Brigade of Midshipmen. Wardroom members also serve as ambassadors for parent philanthropy, helping to extend the reach and impact of the Naval Academy Foundation. Contact: Karen Hicks for more information.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is The Parent Wardroom?
The Parent Wardroom is a community of engaged U.S. Naval Academy parents who are committed to advancing the mission of the Academy by championing philanthropy in support of the Brigade of Midshipmen.
Why is it called The Parent Wardroom?
The Parent Wardroom takes its name from the naval tradition of the wardroom—a space where commissioned officers come together to connect, collaborate, and support one another. This community embodies that same spirit of camaraderie and shared purpose. Parents, though geographically distant, offer a different but essential form of support that provides leadership and philanthropic backing that strengthens the midshipman experience and reinforces the Academy’s mission.
What is the financial commitment to join?
A gift of at least $5,000 annually to the U.S. Naval Academy Foundation qualifies you as a Worden Associate and President’s Circle donor. At least $2,500 of your gift should be designated to the Naval Academy Fund. The remainder may be directed to a fund of your choosing.
What courtesies or benefits are offered to members?
In addition to the full suite of Worden Associate President’s Circle courtesies, members of The Parent Wardroom receive:

  • Access to the Annual Parent Wardroom Meeting with Yard leadership
  • Invitations to regional USNA events and Capstone Reception
  • Parent Happy Hour during President’s Circle Weekend, hosted by the Wardroom
  • Eligible to serve on the Council of Annual Giving
  • Eligible to host a Parent Webinar on behalf of the Wardroom
  • Invitation to the annual Volunteer Leadership Summit 
What does it mean to be a Parent Wardroom ambassador?
As a member, you serve as a philanthropic ambassador—modeling leadership and encouraging others to support the Naval Academy. You may be asked to:

  • Share your “Why I Give” story through publications and campaigns
  • Represent parent philanthropy at events like Welcome Aboard Picnics
  • Partner with Foundation staff to connect with other parent donors
  • Help host or speak at engagement events, both locally and on the Yard 
How does Parent Giving make a difference?
Your gift supports the Margin of Excellence and the programs and experiences that elevate the Academy beyond federal funding. Leadership development, academic enrichment, global opportunities, and athletics are all enhanced through philanthropy. When parents lead with their support, they not only impact their own midshipman’s experience—they strengthen the future of the entire Brigade.