Parent Leadership Giving

Parents and family members who make leadership-level gifts to the University of Wisconsin–Madison understand three key things:

  • The future excellence of the university rests largely in the hands of our community.
  • Every student deserves a transformational learning experience.
  • Supporting the whole UW community naturally benefits their own family as well.

There are three levels of recognition dedicated to honoring Badger parents and family members who make leadership gifts. Each comes with a variety of benefits and opportunities.

Badger Parent Club

$500+ annual gift to the Parents Fund

You will enjoy:

  • access to the Flamingle weekly email from the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association,
  • opportunities to order care packages and birthday cakes for your student,
  • a Badger Parent Club window cling,
  • Wisconsin Union Dining perks pack (available beginning in the second year of giving), and
  • annual communications from the vice chancellor of student affairs regarding the impact of parent giving.

By joining other parents who are making leadership-level gifts, you send a message to students, faculty, staff, and other potential donors that you believe in UW–Madison’s power to benefit the world and deliver an exceptional educational experience. 

Forward Families

$5,000+ annual gift to the Parents Fund

You will enjoy:

  • all the benefits of the Badger Parent Club level;
  • specialized campus access, tours, and receptions with UW leaders; and
  • access to The Weekly newsletter for a deeper insight into your Badger’s experience on campus.

Parent Philanthropy Circle

Donate to the Parents Fund

Your support will help continue the tradition of excellence in teaching, research, and public service.

Make a Gift

This giving society honors our most generous families who commit to meaningful gifts to the UW. Please contact our Parent and Family Philanthropy Team at [email protected] for more details.

You will enjoy:

  • all the benefits of the Forward Families level;
  • an annual subscription to On Wisconsin magazine;
  • optional access to Inside UW, a comprehensive weekly newsletter focused on timely campus news stories; and
  • personal invitations to special events and receptions with campus leadership and fellow Parent Philanthropy Circle parents, including brunch and a special cocktail hour over Family Weekend, virtual fireside chats, and small gatherings for UW parents in cities beyond Madison.

Questions About Giving

If you have questions, please contact our Parent and Family Philanthropy Team at [email protected].