Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge Frequently Asked Questions
If you don't find an answer to your questions about the Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge, please contact Kaylan Pedine, senior associate director, Major Gifts, at kpedine@stern.nyu.edu or 212-998-0681.
What are the benefits of making the Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge?
Is there a pledge minimum?
Can a Pledge count as my Haskins Giving Society membership?
Am I responsible for alerting Stern about my exit?
I have co-founders who are not Stern alumni. Do they need to take the Pledge as well?
My title is not founder or co-founder. Can I still participate in the Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge?
Can I make the Pledge anonymously?
Is the Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge legally binding?
How can I find out more?
What are the benefits of making the Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge?
Those who make our Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge will join an elite group of some of our most innovative and philanthropic alumni. This community receives exclusive School updates and invitations to entrepreneur-focused events. Members will also be listed, along with your company name, as a member of the alumni community who made the Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge (unless you choose to opt out of this benefit).
What can my Pledge support?
Scholarship support is a popular option for alumni who want to give back to the next generation of entrepreneurs and students. Ultimately, you can support the Stern programs of your choosing or the Stern Fund, which allows the Dean the ultimate flexibility to invest in areas of need. We recommend choosing the area(s) you wish to support when you are ready to fulfill your pledge.
Can I pledge to give stocks or securities in the event of a public offering?
NYU Stern can accept stocks or securities in lieu of cash gifts. This option may be a good choice for alumni whose compensation packages include stock options. Learn more about gifts of securities.
Is there a pledge minimum?
There is not a pledge minimum. At the time of your successful exit, a member of the NYU Stern Development and Alumni Relations team will work with you to determine a gift amount that is right for you.
Can a Pledge count as my Haskins Giving Society membership?
The Pledge itself does not qualify you as a member of our Haskins Giving Society, and we encourage you to continue your annual support of Stern with contributions at a level that is right for you. Haskins Giving Society members must give at a level that meets the threshold for Haskins membership within a twelve month period in order to maintain their status.
Am I responsible for alerting Stern about my exit?
We ask that you reach out to NYU Stern about your exit to begin a discussion about completing your Pledge.
I have co-founders who are not Stern alumni. Do they need to take the Pledge as well?
They do not. By making the Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge, you are pledging to personally make a significant gift to Stern in the event of a successful exit. You are not agreeing to a gift on behalf of your company.
My title is not founder or co-founder. Can I still participate in the Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge?
Absolutely! Many of our alumni apply their talents to start-up ventures in a variety of leadership roles like COO or CFO. Alumni with other C-Suite roles or equivalents are also encouraged to take the Pledge.
Can I make the Pledge anonymously?
You can choose to pledge or give anonymously, and please rest assured that NYU Stern will not use your image or name without your consent. When you complete the form, simply leave unchecked the button reading “I give NYU Stern permission to list me publicly as an alumni who has taken the Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge.” If you change your mind in the future, simply notify us.
Is the Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge legally binding?
No. By taking the Founders and Entrepreneurs' Pledge, you are pledging to personally make a significant gift to Stern in the event of a successful exit. Should your circumstances change in any way, you are not legally bound to complete the pledge.
How can I find out more?
Complete this form or reach out to Kaylan Pedine, senior associate director, Major Gifts, at kpedine@stern.nyu.edu or 212-998-0681.