New policy details gift acceptance and naming process

Hillman Library, K. Leroy Irvis Hall, Amos Hall: Naming a building after a donor or important figure in Pitt’s history is one of many ways to keep their memory alive for generations to come. A new University-wide policy clarifies the standards for such an honor in ways that will build partnerships with donors and protect academic freedom.

The Gift Acceptance and Naming policy (Policy AO 45) establishes the requirements for the acceptance of gifts and naming on behalf of the University of Pittsburgh for all campuses. It was developed with input from across the University, including a public comment period as well as collaborations with Faculty Assembly, University Senate and leadership across Pitt.

“This policy will ensure that both the donor intent and the academic independence that lays the cornerstone of our University’s mission are protected,” said Kris Davitt, senior vice chancellor for philanthropic and alumni engagement (PAE). “We are here to ensure that the donor’s interest in supporting the University as well as the University’s needs are being met with every gift.”

The naming of a building must be approved by the University’s Board of Trustees. All other naming opportunities such as endowments, capital spaces and academic or research centers must be reviewed by appropriate senior leadership, including Davitt, with final approval by the chancellor or their designee. Any member of the University who is approached or presented with a gift or naming opportunity must contact PAE before proceeding.

“This was a thorough process and I’m extremely pleased with the results,” Davitt said. “Special thanks to Shannon Christof, senior director of planned giving, and Jen Gabler, assistant vice chancellor of the health sciences, who co-chaired the group making the policy, and to everyone who provided input during this important policy development process.”

Noteworthy details of the policy include:

• The University views donors as part of the University community and as individuals with complex and varied philanthropic interests.
• The University understands and will honor the donor’s intent to the best of its ability.
• PAE is authorized to oversee and administer the acceptance and processing of gifts, and all naming gifts are required to be reviewed, accepted and processed through PAE.
• The senior vice chancellor for PAE will establish a standing advisory committee(s) with members of the University community — including faculty, staff and students — to periodically consult with and advise on matters related to the University’s acceptance of gifts and naming.