What is the Parents Fund?

The Lafayette College Parents Fund represents annual gifts received from parents of undergraduates and alumni.  Your contribution helps Lafayette meet its obligations for essentials such as:

Academic Support
Financial Aid
Student/Faculty Research
Student Life
Unrestricted-Support for Immediate Needs


Do you mean tuition does not cover these educational costs?

Tuition payments do not cover the expense of a Lafayette education. Even for those students who receive no financial aid, the tuition bill does not equal the cost of a year at Lafayette. The difference is made up every year by charitable gifts from the College's alumni, friends, and parents, as well as foundations and corporations.

What about Lafayette's endowment?

Part of the income from the endowment is used to defray costs. The endowment is managed very carefully, with a fixed payout rate for current operating costs. The amount of unrestricted income available is not enough to close the gap between tuition and the real cost of a Lafayette education. The College would have to add about $8 million to its endowment to provide income equal to the $400,000 in contributions made in recent years by Parents Fund donors.

Does my gift make a difference—even if it is a small one?

Parents make gifts both large and small. Every gift is important. The overall program strength comes from the combined gifts from all Lafayette parents. We urge those who can support the College to do so at a level that is appropriate for them.

The Marquis Society

Through generous gifts of $1,000 and more, members of this prestigious giving club—the Marquis Society—support a wide range of programs and facilities. Gifts may be unrestricted, benefiting the College's greatest need, or designated according to the donor's preference. You are invited to join the Marquis Society with a gift of $1,000 or more.

Questions?

Please contact Joe Samaritano '91, Director of the Parents Fund, (610) 330-5047, samaritj@lafayette.edu