The University of Southern Mississippi
philanthropic history is recorded through the names of individuals who
have been the University’s most generous benefactors. Established in 1985, the USM Foundation Honor Club was created as the major gift recognition society to honor those donors whose vision and passion for Southern Miss academics inspired them to support the University with a significant financial gift. Honor Club members have long been celebrated for their loyalty to Southern Miss. They have created countless opportunities for students, faculty and staff through their generosity. Whether creating a lasting legacy through an endowed scholarship or supporting faculty excellence, these patrons have helped to make Southern Miss the premier research university for the Gulf South.
Membership reflects cumulative gifts, including pledge payments, and is tiered into six categories:
Gallery of Benefactors
In every great University, there are visionary individuals and corporations who set the standard for philanthropy and build the foundation upon which the institution will serve future generations. Established in 2001, The Gallery of Benefactors is the highest giving level of The Honor Club. It celebrates cumulative lifetime gifts in excess of $1 million.
President’s Circle
The President’s Circle is reserved for contributors who recognize the value of private giving to The University of Southern Mississippi Foundation with cumulative gifts exceeding $100,000.
Heritage Society
The Heritage Society recognizes the value of our history and heritage by celebrating those who have given cumulative gifts of $50,000 or more to support academic achievement and collegial excellence at The University of Southern Mississippi.
Associates for Excellence
Membership in the Associates for Excellence is awarded to individuals who have given cumulative gifts of $10,000 or more to The University of Southern Mississippi.
Founders’ Society
Membership is reserved exclusively for those alumni and friends who have taken the bold step of including The University of Southern Mississippi Foundation in their estate plans. Membership extends to those who have made plans to give through will commitments, life income gifts, trusts, life insurance, retirement plans or other arrangements.
Circle of Champions – Athletics
Membership is reserved to the top level of annual athletic donors who commit to a minimum of $10,000 per year for a $100,000 commitment or greater.
Events and Benefits
Members of the Honor Club receive the following membership benefits:
• Check-out privileges at the University Libraries.
• Discounted single membership to the Payne Center on the Hattiesburg campus.
• Two parking decals valid in nearly all lots on the Hattiesburg campus, making your visits on campus more convenient.
• Invitations to special events including the annual Honor Club Gala and President’s Countdown to Kickoff pre-game celebration during football season.
For questions about the Honor Club, please contact our donor relations office Phyllis Debrow at 601.266.5337 or Phyllis.Debrow@usm.edu or Christen Bean at 601.266.6292 or Christen.Bean@usm.edu.