Giving FAQ
At Sam Houston State University, we believe that every gift—large or small—creates meaningful opportunities for students, fuels innovation, and strengthens our Bearkat community. Your generosity is more than a donation; it’s an investment in lives transformed through education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore answers to common questions about how you can support the university, engage with our community, and make a lasting impact. Whether you're an alum, donor, or friend of the university, we're here to help.
As a student, I worked for Mr. J. L. Moses, in the Agriculture department, who made a difference in my life while I was at Sam. I feel it is important to give back to help students, and I give in memory of Mr. Moses.
—Loretta J. Hankins, ’56
I give back because I think it is important to stay involved. I appreciate the education I received at SHSU, and I want to stay connected with the university and help current students.
—Wyatt Powell, ’15
As a first-generation college student, I wouldn’t have made it through my first year at Sam without scholarships. I’m incredibly thankful for all those who have helped me. After graduating, I want to do something in criminal justice. I want to make a difference.
—Ashley
Since I’m a first-generation college student, scholarships have helped me a lot, as my family could not afford to send me to college. This scholarship prepares me for the future. By supporting me, and other students, you are changing lives.
—Jacory
As a double major with a heavy class load, scholarships have helped pay for my tuition and books. A lot of people wouldn’t be able to go to college if they didn’t have a scholarship. Many of us rely on your support.
—Audrey
Online: Make a one-time or recurring gift using your credit, debit card, or bank account on our secure online giving website.
Phone: Call the Development Office at 936.294.3625 to make a gift over the phone.
Mail: Make your check payable to Sam Houston State University and mail it to:
Division of University Advancement
Sam Houston State University
Box 2537
Huntsville, TX 77341-2537
Payroll Deduction: Faculty and staff can give monthly via payroll deduction. To authorize for this deduction, please complete the Payroll Deduction form and return to University Advancement, Box 2537
Pledge: A pledge is a formal statement expressing intention to make a gift. You can complete your pledge with a one-time gift at a later date or by making payments over a specified period of time.
CASH
A cash gift will be applied immediately to help fund the university’s highest and greatest needs or can be designated to a particular program, organization, college or department on campus. Cash gifts are tax deductible in the year the gift is given as allowed by law.
REAL ESTATE
A gift of real estate provides the donor the opportunity to support Sam Houston State University, resulting in a possible charitable income tax deduction, a reduction in estate taxes, and reduction of capital gains tax.
SECURITIES, STOCKS, & BONDS
You may use stocks, securities and bonds as part of your gift or all of it. If the securities have appreciated greatly, you may find that you can make a larger gift at a lower cost than if the gift were made in cash. Gifts of closely held stock or other business interests can be converted into cash.
GIFTS IN KIND
Gifts-in-kind are generally defined as non-cash donations, other than real and personal property of materials or long lived assets. The IRS and the University require that gifts-in-kind valued at more than $5,000 also have an independent appraisal provided by the donor.
MATCHING GIFTS
In many cases, employers will match the amount you give, making it possible to double or triple your support. To find out about matching gifts, search for your company here or contact your company’s human resource office.
MEMORIAL & TRIBUTE
Honorary gifts are a great way to memorialize a loved one, celebrate a special occasion or honor a person.