brick with ivy - The Elon Society logo with cupola

The Elon Society, founded in 1994, celebrates Elon University’s most devoted and generous donors who believe in investing in tomorrow’s leaders. Membership in the Elon Society—through its six circles—gives you the ability to make a significant, immediate impact on the student experience through gifts to the areas in which you are most passionate. We invite you to take your place among Elon’s most philanthropic leaders.

Stories Start with You

Leadership contributions to scholarships, programs and facilities create invaluable opportunities for students, empowering them to pursue their passions and excel in their careers. Zach Sellars ’24, Delaney Guidi ’26 and Sam Ramirez ’24 have all benefited from donor support. Watch this special thank you video for Elon Society donors.

Giving Circles

The Elon Society giving circles recognize donors who through their generous annual gifts preserve the hallmarks of an Elon education. Gifts can be made one-time or on a recurring, monthly basis (i.e. $125 per month).

“It is important to remember the years and years of impact that philanthropy has had on Elon’s overall success as a university and specifically how philanthropy has transformed the lives of so many Elon students”.
– Kebbler McGhee Williams ’98, Elon Society Donor

Young Alumni Giving

Undergraduate alumni who graduated in the past 10 years are eligible for Elon Society recognition at the special rates below:

  • Classes of 2020-2024: $500
  • Classes of 2015-2019: $1,000

Donor Recognition

Elon Society donors of all recognition levels receive the triannual Magazine of Elon. This original publication celebrates philanthropic engagement, highlights different campus programs, spotlights seasonal events on campus, and offers first-look information about events and opportunities for deeper involvement.

Additionally, donors receive invitations to attend university functions including fall and spring convocations and the Baird, Elder and Walker lectures. Previous speakers include former president George H.W. Bush, Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, astrophysicist and author Neil deGrasse Tyson, business entrepreneur and co-host of “Shark Tank” Daymond John, and nonprofit leader and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Jonathan Reckford and many, many others. Additionally, donors are invited to attend special receptions where they can meet lecture speakers.  We are proud to provide distinct recognition of Elon Society donors through ribbons that can be proudly displayed at these events, honoring the six giving circles.

Leaders in Impact

Contributions from Elon Society members represent a large portion of Elon’s annual total philanthropic support for all gift funds. This leadership support sustains the University’s high-impact learning environment, focused on:

  • Scholarship support for students
  • Transformative academic programs
  • The Elon Experiences: study abroad, internships, service, undergraduate research and leadership
  • Outstanding faculty scholars
  • Innovative campus environment

We see your gifts put into action. Whether they fund internships where students work and learn alongside seasoned employees in their chosen field, or advancement of life-changing research, or expanding a students worldview through study abroad, or fostering inclusivity through organizations that provide resources to students on campus – your gifts matter!

“Our Elon experience is such a large part of who we are today that we feel we should help Elon’s leadership with their vision for the future.”
– Mark ’98 and Kim ’99 Tyson, Elon Society Donors

For inquiries, contact Lauren Forbis, Director of Annual Giving, at (336) 278-7459 or lforbis3@elon.edu.