What is the Hearts & Minds Capital Campaign?
It is a long range comprehensive initiative to raise $40 million for Saint Mary's University. Through the Hearts & Minds Capital Campaign, we will fund new and renewed facilities, programs, student financial assistance and faculty initiatives. Together, these improvements will help us reach the minds and touch the hearts of our students.

Why does Saint Mary's University need money?
Saint Mary's receives the smallest ratio of provincial funding per student of any university in Nova Scotia. Despite this, Saint Mary's University has managed to balance its budgets consistently for more than a decade - all the while delivering a top-rate educational experience for our students.

Why are outright gifts important?
Gifts of cash are especially advantageous to the University because they can be put to use immediately. Outright gifts can be cash, credit card charges and appreciated securities (shares of stock or mutual funds). Cash gifts can be pledged over time and paid monthly, quarterly or annually according to the donor's preferences.

Why is planned giving advantageous?
A planned gift can maximize your giving potential and can even allow you to ensure your financial future or that of a loved one. Gifts can be made of cash, securities, bonds, real estate, or personal property. It is important that you seek legal and tax counsel, where appropriate. » Lean more

Will I also be asked to give to the Annual Fund?
As a general rule, yes. During the Capital Campaign, your contribution to the Annual Fund remains important. The University relies on annual gifts to provide added resources in support of its faculty each year. Both annual and capital campaign giving are crucial to the quality of education and financial health of the University.

Will there be public recognition for my gift?
All donor information is confidential and your privacy is ensured. You can indicate on your pledge form if you would like your gift to remain anonymous. But, every person who makes a donation to the Hearts & Minds Capital Campaign will receive a letter of acknowledgement and thanks. For those donors who do not request anonymity, recognition comes in several different forms. Campaign contributions will be recognized in various publications such as the annual Donor Report, Campaign Newsletter and the Campaign Web Site. Certain significant gifts that are designated by the donor to specific departments or facilities may be named in your honour, or to honour others of your choice. The campaign staff can provide information in this regard. » Learn more about naming opportunities.

If I am a resident of the United States and I make a gift to Saint Mary's, will my charitable receipt be vaild for the my U.S. income tax return?
Yes.  Saint Mary's University alumni and their families may make donations directly to Saint Mary's and use their charitable receipt for their U.S income tax returns under the Canada-United States Income Tax Convention.  Non-alumni can make a donation through The Friends of Saint Mary's University Inc. (FSMU) and receive the same benefit.   » Learn more about gifts by residents of the United States to Saint Mary's University .