Frank S. Kedzie Society

Frank S. Kedzie Society recognizes the generosity of donors who make a commitment between $1,000,000 and $2,499,999 to MSU or a documented planned gift of at least $1,500,000. In addition, Kedzie Society donors are permanently enshrined in the pillars of Benefactors Plaza.

Named for the eighth president of Michigan State University, the Kedzie Society is one of the University's most prestigious donor recognition groups. Kedzie served as president from 1915 to 1922 and is considered a pioneer for private support to the University. During his tenure, R. E. Olds gave $100,000 toward the construction of Olds Hall, a new engineering hall to replace the engineering building that burned down on the same site. It was the first private donation toward a campus building.

President Kedzie is also recognized as the driving force behind early alumni involvement. In his first year as president, he encouraged alumni contributions and student pledges to construct the Union Memorial Building, built a decade later.

The University's relationship with each donor is revered, and the goal is to maintain an affiliation that shows our appreciation and gratitude. In addition to festive gatherings, Kedzie Society donors may have increased contact with the President, other University administrators, faculty and students. In addition to financial contributions, the University recognizes the knowledge and experience of donors at this level as essential to the progress of MSU.

Recognition at the Frank S. Kedzie Society level typically includes all gifts received prior to making a pledge at this level and may include company matching contributions. Pledges are fulfilled within one-to-five years. Planned gifts are documented in writing. A planned gift may be combined with cash gifts and pledges to qualify for Kedzie Society recognition.

It is MSU's privilege to provide each Kedzie Society level donor with a distinctive and personalized memento, recognition in an issue of the MSU Alumni Magazine, complimentary quarterly issues of the MSU Alumni Magazine if not received through a membership in the MSU Alumni Association, and the donor-focused magazine Developments. Donors may also be appropriately recognized by college or unit-based programs to which they contribute.

For more information on the Kedzie Society membership, please call University Development at (517) 884-1000 and ask to speak to a special gifts officer.