How does a class scholarship work?
The Class of ‘76 endowed scholarship was started in the 1990’s from contributions from classmates which were invested in an endowed fund in SLUH’s long-term investment portfolio. The dividends and interest on the fund are annually distributed to students who qualify for financial assistance.
How much does the class of ‘76 want to raise?
Goal: $500,000
Previous Gifts + Commitments as of April 1: $150,000
Remaining amount to raise to reach goal: $350,000
Does SLUH need endowed scholarships?
This school year, SLUH provided over $6 million in financial aid and scholarships to more than 49% of the student body. SLUH has students coming from 82 zip codes and 149 feeder schools on both sides of the river. Until the endowment is sufficient to cover all financial aid needs, students are supported by a combination of endowed scholarships, the Jr. Bill Fund and annual CASHBAH auction proceeds.
SLUH has recently received two very large gift commitments but those gifts will be paid out over many years and those funds are restricted to STEM and teacher programs and cannot be used for financial assistance.
How does the scholarship work?
Contributions made to the Class of ‘76 Scholarship are permanently invested. The earnings from our collective scholarship fund will be awarded every year in perpetuity to students with demonstrated financial need for tuition assistance. The Director of Financial Aid determines a student’s scholarship award. The Class of ‘76 Scholarship can be awarded to one student or it can be divided among several Jr. Bills.
How are the funds in a scholarship fund invested?
The Endowment and Investment Committee of the Board sets asset allocation targets and oversees Partners Capital, the external advisor. The portfolio is diversified across asset classes, including alternatives like private equity, similar to leading college endowments. It’s built to capture economic growth, remain resilient in downturns and preserve value during inflationary environments.
What is the rate of annual spending off that endowed fund?
The portfolio is managed assuming SLUH will withdraw 4.0% to 5.75% annually for tuition assistance. The draw is determined by the average ending market value over trailing 12 quarters. A 5% draw of $500,000 delivers $25,000 in tuition assistance. Tuition for the 2026-2027 school year is $26,000.
How many other classes have full tuition scholarships?
The classes of 1963, 1967, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974 and 1975 have established full tuition scholarships.
What are my options for making a gift?
- You can make a one-time gift, set up auto pay from your bank account, pledge over a period of time, or include a provision in your estate plan (will, trust, IRA, etc.)
- You can make a pledge or a gift at sluh.org/classof1976
- Pledges can be made over two years (2026 and 2027). If you would like to make a large commitment and need more time, please contact Linda Domeyer at 314-269-2113.
- Pay online, mail a check or donate appreciated securities at a schedule convenient for you.
Will this count towards my annual consecutive giving streak?
Yes! All giving to SLUH qualifies you for an annual giving tier and for consecutive giving. SLUH will not solicit the class of 1976 for any other gifts until the new fiscal year beginning July 2027.
