Give to the University
Support the University of St.Thomas
At the University of St. Thomas, philanthropy fuels opportunity. Every gift—large or small—helps ensure that deserving students have access to a transformative education rooted in goodness, discipline, and knowledge. From annual scholarships to endowment growth, campus enhancements, and future-focused planned gifts, your generosity builds a legacy of impact that lasts far beyond the classroom.
The St. Thomas Fund
Annual Giving for Immediate Impact
The St. Thomas Fund is UST’s annual giving program dedicated to raising scholarships for deserving students. Contributions go directly to support students in the upcoming academic year, ensuring they have access to the resources they need to thrive.Unrestricted annual scholarships remain the highest priority, but gifts can also be directed toward a specific school or academic program.
Every gift matters
Unrestricted annual scholarships remain the highest priority, but gifts can also be directed toward a specific school or academic program
Leadership Giving
Annual cumulative contributions of $1,000 or more qualify donors for membership in The President’s Circle, an esteemed society of benefactors dedicated to advancing UST’s mission.
Recurring Gifts
Make a lasting impact by spreading your gift throughout the year. For example, just $83.34 monthly grants you President’s Circle membership.
Matching Gifts
Many employers match charitable contributions—your gift could be doubled or even tripled. Contact your department of Human Resources to find out if your company offers matching gifts.
Staff & Operations
For more information about ways to support The St. Thomas Fund, contact Jacquelyn Olexa at olexa@stthom.edu or 713-525-3100.
Endowment Giving
A Lasting Legacy
Endowment gifts create a permanent source of support for UST, providing scholarships, advancing academic programs, and sustaining the University’s mission for generations to come. By establishing or contributing to an endowment, you ensure that future students will benefit from the same transformative education that has shaped thousands of UST alumni. For more information about endowed gifts, contact Meredith McCrary at mccrarym@slateblue-salmon-818219.hostingersite.com or 713-525-3100.
Planned Giving
The Lillian & Stella Scanlan Society
Planned gifts extend your impact beyond your lifetime. The Lillian & Stella Scanlan Society honors those who have remembered UST in their estate plans through:
- Bequests in wills or trusts: Leave a lasting legacy through your estate planning.
- Retirement and life insurance beneficiary designations: Name UST as a beneficiary of your accounts.
- Irrevocable gifts such as charitable gift annuities or trusts: Create structured giving arrangements that benefit both you and the University.
By joining this Society, you leave a lasting legacy that strengthens the University’s mission and ensures Catholic higher education continues to thrive in Houston. For more information about planned gifts, please contact Kiernan O’Connor at Kiernan.OConnor@slateblue-salmon-818219.hostingersite.com or 713-525-3100.
Build the Future
Come & See: A Campaign for The University
of St. Thomas
UST is growing rapidly, with historic enrollment and a bold vision to expand the student body. In fall 2024, campus housing was operating at 180% capacity—a clear sign of both growth and urgent need. Expanding on-campus housing is essential to support this momentum, foster a vibrant Catholic community, and enhance student success and retention. The new residence hall will be a 5-story, 93,000 square foot facility located at West Alabama and Graustark. Designed in collaboration with leading partners—Turner & Townsend Heery, Corgan, The Lawrence Group, Jackson & Ryan Architects, and Harvey Builders—the hall will feature:
- Hundreds of new student beds:
- Study and lounge spaces
- Dining areas and an outdoor quad.
- A chapel anchoring the space
With your support, this project will not only meet urgent housing needs but also transform the student experience at UST for decades to come. For more information, please contact Dawn Koenning at dawnkoe@slateblue-salmon-818219.hostingersite.com or 713-525-3100.
Giving Societies
Our Giving Societies
Philanthropy at UST is celebrated through distinguished giving societies that honor the generosity of alumni, parents, and friends:
The President’s Circle
Recognizes leadership annual giving of $1,000 or more to the St. Thomas Fund.
The Major Giving Society
Honors those whose significant contributions fund scholarships, endowments, capital projects, and operations, sustaining UST’s Catholic intellectual tradition.
The Lillian & Stella Scanlan Society
Recognizes individuals and families making planned gifts through their estate or financial planning.
The Champions Club
Supports Celt Athletics by enhancing the educational, spiritual, and athletic experiences of UST student-athletes while building Celt pride.
Supporting Student Scholarships
Signature Events
Philanthropy also comes to life through UST’s signature fundraising events that benefit The St. Thomas Fund:
Annual Scholarship Gala: A premier evening celebrating the impact of scholarships and the donors who make them possible.
Two Saints and a Taco Tasting: A lively event bringing together alumni, friends, and the Houston community to support scholarships while enjoying great food and fellowship.
Mission Drives Us
Office of University Advancement
Dedicated to building meaningful relationships and advancing the university’s mission through philanthropy, alumni engagement, corporate partnerships, and strategic development efforts that drive lasting impact.
Sr. Vice President of Advancement & External Relations
Administrative Assistant for the Office of Advancement and External Relations
Associate Vice President of Development
Director of Development / Planned Giving Advisor
Director of Development
Senior Director of Development, Annual Giving and Donor Relations
Assistant Director of Donor and Alumni Relations
Events Manager
Senior Director of Corporate Relations
Assistant Director of Corporate Relations
Development Manager, Corporate Relations
Assistant Director of Advancement Services
Assistant Director of Advancement Services, Prospect Management
Advancement Services Manager
Join Us Today
Transforming Lives
Your gift to the University of St. Thomas is more than a contribution—it’s a direct investment in students, their dreams, and the future of our community. Together, we ensure that a holistic Catholic education remains within reach for all.