First Gift

The First Gift Program began in 2008 for young alumni to set their class on a philanthropic path their final year at the Academy. Since its inception, thousands of young grads have signed up to begin a lifelong journey of “giving back”.

Every midshipman has benefited from alumni philanthropy in areas of academic, athletic and leadership support. First Gift provides young alumni the opportunity to give back to the Academy and acknowledge the many opportunities they have had. The First Gift program gives Midshipmen the chance to kick-start building their class legacy before they leave the Yard.

Contributions to First Gift are split 85 percent / 15 percent between the Class First Gift Fund and the Naval Academy Fund. Three years before their 10th reunions, classes work directly with the Foundation and Academy to determine how their First Gift Fund will best support their class goals, the Brigade, and the Superintendent’s strategic priorities.

The Foundation meets with Class Leadership to educate them on the Alumni Association and Foundation and the impact Philanthropy has had on them and asks for the class’s support. This first meeting usually occurs in the Fall of First-Class year. Following the initial meeting, the class is reminded about the Fund during their battalion receptions and during out-processing, participation is voluntary but strongly encouraged.

To find out more about First Gift, please contact Bill Hébert, Director, Class Legacy Gift Programs or Sara Brown, Assistant Director, Class Giving.

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