FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

"Stanford has lots of money, why do we have to raise money for fencing?"

Stanford does have lots of money, and lots of expenses! The downturn in the economy caused the interest on Stanford's investments to be much smaller than it was before. The University has to make cuts in every area of the budget. Each of the athletic programs has to raise enough money to fund an endowment so it can support itself on the interest. This method of funding means that money does not have to be raised each year but it also means that a large amount of money needs to be raised to fund the endowment.

"Do you still need people to write letters of support?"

Yes, absolutely! We need to show both the University and prospective major donors how much support Stanford Fencing has. You can send e-mails or letters to Lisa Posthumus Milgram, Co-head Fencing Coach, Athletic Department, Stanford University, Stanford, CA. 94305. Please also send letters to

Mr. Bob Bowlsby, Jaquish & Kenninger Director of Athletics

Stanford University

Arrillaga Family Sports Center

641 East Campus Drive

Stanford CA 94305-6150

bowlsby@stanford.edu 

and

John L. Hennessey, President of Stanford University

Office of the President

Building 10, Main Quad

Stanford, CA 94305

president@stanford.edu 

If you have any questions, you can contact a Committee member listed on our Home Page.

"Why do we have to raise the money right away?"

Because the money that used to support the program no longer exists.

"I can't give very much. Is a small donation worth it?"

There is no donation too small. Consider getting friends or family members to each give a small amount so the joint donation is larger. Consider holding a bake sale or a garage sale. Consider donating something of value, such as a gift or a service, so it could be sold at a silent auction. Consider donating time or fund raising ideas to the Committee. Consider partnering with Stanford Fencing in such a way that it would be beneficial to Stanford fencing as well as your company. Coaches and Committee members are available to discuss possibilities.

"What if I want to give money to fencing but I can't give it right away?"

Thank you! You can give a written pledge for one or more years. You can remember Stanford Fencing in your estate planning. The Committee can refer you to Jeff Shilling, Associate Athletic Director for Development who can assist you with the paperwork.

"How do I know my gift will go to Fencing and not get lost in the system?"

The Committee and the University are working closely together, to track each gift, large and small. You will receive written acknowlegment of your gift or pledge. You can also give your gift directly to a Coach or Committee member. Follow the instructions on the first page of the web site and be sure to specify Friend of Fencing.

"How will my donation be used?"

The operating budget for fencing will be used for coaches salaries, travel expences for the team, uniforms, jackets, knickers, cords, masks, shoes, tournament expenses, insurance, salle maintenance, equipment maintenance and repair, conditioning equipment, and administrative costs.

"There are so many good causes, why should I give to Fencing?

You should give to things you believe in and want to support.

You are being asked to support Stanford Fencing because those with a relationship to the sport of fencing and Stanford Fencing believe that fencing is rising rapidly in popularity and quaiity in the United States. Stanford Fencing has a wonderful new facility that would be a shame to lose. Fencing is a lifelong sport for men and women. It is a sport that many people with disabilities can participate in. It is both an individual and team sport. Fencing is one of the only sports that has been in every modern Olympics. Stanford Fencing holds the unique position of being the only Division I NCAA program in the West. If Division I fencing ends at Stanford outstanding scholar-athlete fencers would be lost to Eastern schools. Stanford has had a fencing program since 1891 and a trophy winning fencing program since 1916. Stanford fencing has produced Olympians and All Americans. If you need more reasons to support Stanford Fencing read the list on the first page of the web site, or call or e-mail us and ask to speak to a Coach or Committee member.