Be Recognized
In gratitude for the difference you make through your generous gifts of time, talent, and treasure, we at McKendree University are always seeking ways to honor the alumni, friends, and family who make giving to our beloved University a priority in their lives. We have five established giving societies at McKendree: The William McKendree Society, The Cornerstone Society, The Old Main Legacy Society, The Bearcat Athletic Boosters, and The Friends of the Hett.
The William McKendree Society
The William McKendree Society, our premier recognition group, is open to alumni, parents and friends who meet or
exceed the minimum annual giving level of $1,000. Named after Bishop William McKendree,
the members of the William McKendree Society are the heart of our University.
Bearcats of the Last Decade (BOLD)
Bearcats of the Last Decade (BOLD) is a group of young alumni who are dedicated to the mission of the university by
virtue of their giving and involvement. This progressive giving society of recent
grads will step up their gifts by $100 every year until they meet or exceed the $1,000+
giving level. At that time, they will join the William McKendree Society at the Director’s
Circle level.
McKendree Bearcat Booster Club
The McKendree Bearcat Booster Club (MBBC) is the fundraising arm for McKendree University Athletics. Supported by individuals and businesses alike, the MBBC provides funds that support program operations and facility enhancements for more than 850 student-athletes. Gifts to the MBBC support athletic programs in the following ways:
• Enhancement of athletic budgets supporting 35 sports programs
• Equipment, travel, uniforms and supplies
• Improvements and repairs of fields and facilities
The MBBC is dedicated to providing an exceptional athletic experience for the student-athletes
at McKendree University through annual contributions. Members include alumni, former
student-athletes, parents, faculty, staff and friends who are dedicated to the advancement
of Bearcat Athletics. In keeping with this vision, the McKendree University Athletic
Department benefits directly from contributions to the Bearcat Booster Club. No matter
how much you choose to donate, every gift provides necessary resources to compete
at the NCAA Division II level.
Friends of the Hett
The mission of the Hett is to nurture creative thinking and strengthen community bonds
across the Southern Illinois region by bringing innovative, influential and diverse
artists to perform on our stage.
The Hett has built a sterling reputation for presenting world-class artists in its
490-seat auditorium. With its stellar acoustics and intimate seating, the Hett has
hosted an amazing array of artists from every discipline including; dance, jazz, opera,
classical, theatrical and family productions. Many of these shows sell out within
weeks of opening ticket sales each fall.
Friends of the Hett members make each season possible, and make each season better than the last! Friends of the Hett are entitled to a number of benefits and perks including ticket exchange privileges and advance ticket purchase opportunities.
Membership begins at $100.
The Old Main Legacy Society
The Old Main Legacy Society recognizes individuals who choose to support McKendree University through a planned
gift. Members recognize the importance of supporting today’s University, and ensuring
its mission is carried well into the future. McKendree University honors with dignity
and gratitude the legacy that is established through planned giving.
To learn more about our recognition alternatives or to find out about our various
Alumni Honors and Awards, please contact our office.
