Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When I make a gift to Bethel’s Annual Fund, what is that money used for?
A: Annual Fund donations make up the difference in operating funds between tuition income and actual expenses to operate Bethel University. It is used for student scholarships, campus ministry activities, student development programs, and classroom support.

Q: Are my gifts to Bethel University tax deductible?
A: Gifts to Bethel University are tax deductible. A tax receipt will be sent for each gift.

Q: Can I give a gift online?
A: Yes, learn more about making a gift online.

Q: Can I give to special projects outside of the Annual Fund, such as support for the athletic program?
A: The Annual Fund supports all our departments, including athletics. Donors who have a particular interest in athletics or nursing or any other part of Bethel life can give designated gifts. Contact the Office of Development at 651.635.8050 to learn more.

Q: I live in California and am primarily interested in supporting Bethel Seminary San Diego. If I designate a gift to Bethel Seminary San Diego, will my contribution go to that school and not be diverted to other parts of Bethel University?
A: Yes, gifts can be directed to any one of the schools of Bethel University. We take special care that the intent of our supporters is honored. If you direct a gift to Bethel Seminary San Diego, that is where it will be applied.

Q: I’d like to establish an endowed scholarship. How do I do that?
A: Endowed scholarships can be established with a minimum of a $10,000 principle. A percentage of the earnings is awarded (in years when earnings allow that to be possible). Scholarships can be added to over time. Scholarships can be named in honor of a loved one, or a favorite pastor, missionary, or church.

For College of Arts & Sciences, College of Adult & Professional Studies, or Graduate School scholarships, contact Dan Wiersum at 651.635.8052 or 800.255.8706, ext. 8052. Dan may be reached via email at d-wiersum@bethel.edu.

To discuss a seminary scholarship, contact Jim Spickelmier at 651.635.8054 or 800.255.8706, ext. 8054. Jim may also be reached by email at j-spickelmier@bethel.edu.

Q: Can I give a gift by credit card?
A: Instructions for making a gift by credit can be found at http://www.bethel.edu/development/give-to-bethel/index/

Q: May I give stock?
A: Gifts of stock are a great way to give to Bethel and avoid taxes on the earnings of your investment. Contact the Office of Development at 651.635.8050 or a development officer to obtain specific information as to how to give such a gift. Read more at http://www.bethel.edu/development/give-to-bethel/index/

Q: Can I give a gift to a specific student?
A: Individuals can have a gift credited to an individual students account. However, such gifts are not tax deductible by IRS rules. Gifts given to a non-directed scholarship account are tax deductible.

Q: Does Bethel offer help for individuals who would like to designate a gift to Bethel in their will or in a trust?
A: Dan Wiersum, a certified specialist in planned giving, is available to speak to individuals who would like advice on such plans. Eventually, individuals will have to have their own legal representative draw up the necessary documents, but Dan and others in the development office can offer valuable advice.

Q: Does Bethel have an endowment? How much is it?
A: Bethel has an endowment of about $25 million. The Bethel Foundation manages our endowment and also manages about $40 million in trusts and other financial vehicles for Bethel supporters. If you have questions about the endowment and how monies are invested, contact Angie Hjelle, executive director of the Bethel Foundation, at 651.635.1001 or a-hjelle@bethel.edu.

Q: What size gift is most helpful?
A: Donors give gifts of all sizes to Bethel. However, a very valuable group of donors are those who give to the President’s Club with gifts of $1,500 a year or more. The President’s Club members are the core of Bethel’s Annual Fund support.