Say Thanks

Donors Make Heritage Possible

Heritage University is a real life example of crowdfunding. Almost everything that Heritage is today, from the buildings on campus to student scholarships is made possible thanks to the generosity of thousands of donors.

Our donors are generous and caring people, many from our community (including many faculty and staff here on campus!) who see firsthand the value of a local university, but there are countless others from across the nation who simply believe in our mission. They typically ask for nothing in return, but receiving a well written thank you note from a student is always special and lets the donor know that their gift was meaningful and appreciated.  Your message reminds them why they give to Heritage and often help secure continuing gifts for future students.

$1,825,690

given in 2019-20 from private donors!

Help us thank every person who made a gift to Heritage in 2020!

How to Write a Meaningful Thank You

    1. Introduce Yourself
      – Include your name, your major or desired course of study (if known). Provide additional background information if you are comfortable. Our donors love to hear your stories- even if it seems boring to you!
    2. Express Your Gratitude
      – Write sincerely and authentically.
      – BE GENERIC as gifts can go to a variety of funds (including scholarships, Emergency Fund, programs, etc.) and we may not be able to match a donor to your message if you are too specific.
      Example: “Thank you so much for giving to Heritage. Your gift helps students like myself achieve the dream of a college degree.”
    3. Demonstrate the Impact
      – Share how being a student at Heritage is impacting your life and what you enjoy most. Why you chose Heritage. Your major. Club/community service activities. Accomplishments, awards or honors you are proud of.  Interests outside your studies.
    4. Look Forward
      Share you plans for the future: trips, activities, graduation or prospective job.  Example: “Upon completion of my studies, I plan to pursue a career in teaching.”
    5. Thank Again and Well Wishes
      These will mail after January 1 so please avoid using holiday references.
      Examples: “Thank you again for giving to Heritage.”  “May you have a safe and happy New Year!”
    6. DO NOT close/sign your message.
      We will automatically sign it for you with your name.

    Final Steps:

    • Be clear and concise.
    • Proofread your note.
    • Letters that appear careless or with little content will not be eligible for credit.
    • See below for a few examples.

Example #1

My name is Maritza Gonzalez and I’m in my first year at Heritage. I wanted to attend college so that one day I can own my own business. I take care of my family, so leaving home was not an option for me, especially not now during the pandemic. Thankfully, I was able to enroll at Heritage and am taking business classes. Your gift to Heritage makes it possible for students like me to achieve our goals of earning a degree. Thank you for everything you do for us! Happy New Year!

Example #2

My name is Marcus Black and I’m a freshman at Heritage University.  In my family’s current financial situation, I would not have been able to achieve my dream of attending college.  Thanks to the generosity of donors like you, I am about to start my second semester and have the opportunity to increase my knowledge and find the right path for my life. I care deeply about our land and the impact we have on it and think that I might pursue a career in environmental studies.

Some day when I am in a more stable financial situation, I hope to be able to help someone as you have helped me.  Thank you for supporting students like myself. Best wishes for a safe and healthy New Year!

Example #3

My name is Esmeralda Diaz and I am a junior in the nursing program at Heritage. I’ve wanted to be a nurse my whole life. Going to college has been a financial struggle for me, as it is with everyone I’m sure…it’s hard work being a full time student and trying to earn the money to survive. The financial aid I’ve received thanks to donors like you is such a blessing. It give me peace of mind to you and has allowed me to focus more on my studies and education. And right now, education is my life! I love it! It’s wonderful, the things you learn, the doors that are opened to you when you become educated. I will be a dedicated nurse that really cares, and helps people, to make their lives better.

Thank you again!

While you may be completing this exercise for credit, know that the words you write will very likely bring a smile to the recipient. Goodness knows, we could all use a kind gesture this year. Thank you in advance for taking the time to craft a thoughtful message.

Please try to write slightly different variations of these messages so that each thank you is unique.

If you have any questions about this project, please contact Erin Smith at smith_e1@heritage.edu.