Ways to Give Back

A special partnership

The Presidents Club at BGSU provides the opportunity for a special kind of partnership. Founded in 1966 through the leadership of Carroll Cheek '47, the Presidents Club is a distinguished group of donors who are dedicated to helping the University meet its educational and service commitments, including attainment of its vision-- to be the premier learning community in Ohio and one of the best in the nation.

To date, more than 600 individuals, corporations and foundations have joined, becoming partners with BGSU in changing the lives of thousands of students and faculty.

The Presidents Club comprises a group of donors who recognize the need for private support at BGSU. Within the club there are several different levels, ranging from gifts of $12,500 to $1 million or more.

  • Williams Society,  $1 million and above
  • Prout Society,  $500,000 - $999,999
  • Jerome Society,  $250,000 - $499,999
  • Benefactors Society,  $100,000 - $249,999
  • Founders Society,  $50,000 - $99,999
  • Patrons Society,  $25,000 - $49,999
  • Standard Level,  $15,000 - $24,999

Charter Members - 1966

Carroll Cheek '47, "Founding Father"
William T. Jerome III (deceased)
Harold Anderson (deceased)
Robert Baron '40 (deceased)
Marlen Hoverson (deceased)
B. Cella Strong (deceased)
Theodore Wakefield (deceased)


The staff in the Office of Development are available to provide assistance and to work closely with a donor's advisors in determining the most advantageous method of giving.

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