During your student’s time at Washington University, they will discover their voice, develop their own ideas, and set goals for the future. They will collaborate with world-class faculty and form lifetime friendships with other students from around the world. They will become the leaders, creators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow.

Each year, the generous support of Washington University parents helps the university provide an exceptional experience for all students. In 2019-20, WashU parents and families contributed $6.5 million to the university’s Annual Fund, which supports the following areas and many more:

  • Need-based scholarship programs
  • Distinguished faculty
  • Undergraduate research
  • New academic programs
  • Exceptional leadership opportunities
  • State-of-the-art facilities and learning technologies

Annual Fund gifts may be designated to support the school your student attends or another area or program that is meaningful to you, such as scholarship support, student health and wellness, University Libraries, or the Career Center.

Make a gift today
We feel fortunate to be part of the WashU community. As two-time parents, we’ve been actively involved with the university for many years. Our children receive an amazing education and opportunities to grow outside the classroom while surrounded by faculty and staff who are genuinely invested in their success, so we are excited to give back. David and Rona Baizer, parents of Will, BS ’16, and Caroline, BSBA ’21

2020–21 participation

7,106

parent households made gifts

6,781

parent households made gifts toward the Annual Fund

1,168

parent Eliot Society members

$18.8M

total parent and family gifts

$6.5M

designated to the Annual Fund

$1.81M

in scholarship gifts

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Opportunities to engage

Scholarship support has afforded me the freedom to pursue my aspirations and to make the most of my time here at WashU… I cannot wait to pay it forward by making a difference in the lives of my patients.

Elizabeth Tolmich-Searle, Washington University Program in Physical Therapy, Class of 2022
Read more student stories

William Greenleaf Eliot Society

Parents who make a gift of $1,000 or more are eligible for annual membership in the William Greenleaf Eliot Society. You may designate your gift to the school, program, or scholarship that is meaningful to your family, and your gift will have an impact on the educational experience of current and future WashU students. Eliot Society parents of seniors may choose to honor their graduate with a contribution to scholarships.

Learn more about the Eliot Society

Looking for more ways to get involved?

Family members are an essential part of the Washington University community and their perspective enriches all that we do. WashU offers many ways for parents and families to get involved with the university and meet other parents, students, and alumni.

Parent volunteer opportunities