Alumni engage with CEE in many ways, from mentoring and hiring to philanthropy. In this Q&A, Caitlin Bell and Emily Thurston from CEE’s Advancement team offer straightforward answers to some common questions about individual giving for those curious about different options.

Why does my support matter right now?

CEE is moving forward amid tighter resources and shifting timelines. As we face reductions in state and federal funding, we are welcoming one of our largest undergraduate cohorts to date. Flexible private support gives the department room to keep classes hands-on, honor commitments to graduate students, and maintain the labs and shared spaces that make learning possible. In short, it preserves what makes a CEE education so strong and keeps research that benefits communities across Washington on track.

What needs are most immediate, and how can support be focused there?

Right now, support is most needed in four areas:

• Keeping classes small and interactive by ensuring there are enough student instructors to lead discussion sections and hold office hours.
• Supporting graduate teaching and research by funding graduate students who run labs and keep experiments moving.
• Providing short-term support to keep projects on track when outside funds are delayed.
• Maintaining classrooms, labs and shared facilities in More Hall.

I’d like to give, but I’m not sure what I can afford at this time. Are there ways to make giving more accessible?

Yes. Many alumni choose recurring gifts — monthly or annual commitments that provide steady support the department can count on. Even modest amounts add up and make a real difference, especially during times of decreased public funding.

Others give through non-cash assets such as appreciated stock, mutual fund shares or real estate, which can offer tax advantages while supporting students and faculty. For alumni over the age of 70, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from an IRA can count toward your required minimum distribution but is not taxed as income, making it one of the simplest and most tax-efficient ways to support CEE.

I’d like my gift to create something lasting. How do I honor a legacy at CEE?

Consider a named fund. Endowed funds are invested to provide steady support year after year. Named term funds are spent now for immediate impact — especially helpful this year as we navigate funding uncertainty and higher enrollment. You can also add to existing funds in areas you care about.