Graduating Class Gift

Breaking all records, the Class of 2009 made the largest HKS Graduating Class Gift ever with over $75,000 raised as of June 2, 2009. Congratulations to the Mid-Careers for leading the way with a 54.5% participation rate. The overall participation rate for the Class of 2009 is 30%. There is still time to make a gift that will immediately benefit your fellow graduates and future HKS students.  You have until June 30, 2009.  Your gift will be credited to the 2009 Graduating Class Gift when you make your gift on the general online 'Giving to Harvard' form.

It was decided that the 2009 Class Gift will be of best use if it is designated to either the Dean’s Financial Aid Fund or the Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP).  Participation is what matters, so make your gift of any size today! 

Top Five FAQs
Regarding the 2009 Graduating Class Gift

1. What is the Graduating Class Gift?
The Graduating Class Gift is a way to show our appreciation to HKS and leaves a lasting impression of the Class of 2009. Each class member’s involvement makes a difference for future HKS students and fellow recent graduates—it sends the message that, as a class, we believe in the work done at HKS and the contributions that its students, faculty, and alumni make to solving the world’s most challenging public problems.

Given the current economic climate, we understand it is difficult finding a way to give. It is likely, however, to be even harder for future HKS students to afford an education. This is our chance to help them, as well as recent graduates who choose to work in the public sector.


2. Where does my money go?
Based on your input, it was decided that the 2009 Graduating Class Gift will go towards the Dean’s Financial Aid Fund and the Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP).

All admitted HKS students are eligible for assistance from the Dean’s Financial Aid Fund. There are no restrictions on geography, merit, area of study, or the jobs they take after graduation. It benefits current students based solely on financial need and is directed at the discretion of Dean Ellwood.

Making a contribution to LRAP will immediately benefit eligible graduates taking jobs in the public sector. Graduates working at public sector and non-profit organizations, with purposes consistent with the mission of the Harvard Kennedy School, earning up to $60,000 for single applicants and $80,000 for married, qualify for LRAP. Only loans certified by HKS for attendance at the School are eligible for consideration. International graduates who have borrowed student loans certified by HKS are eligible to participate. Applicants may receive coverage for a total of five years.

3. Why should I give?
• Just as we have reaped the benefits thanks to the generosity of those who have gone before us, it is now our time to help future HKS students experience the same opportunities we were afforded.
• It is through the generosity of each graduating class, alumni, and friends that HKS is able to remain the global leader in educating and empowering individuals committed to advancing the public interest.
• When you make a gift you are entered into a raffle for a chance to win a tote bag filled with HKS merchandise.

4. What if I can’t make a large gift?
Every gift makes a difference! Our goal is to reach 100% participation from the Class of 2009, so regardless of the amount you are comfortable giving, please know that any donation is greatly appreciated. Your participation is what counts, not the dollar amount. A high participation rate shows that we believe in HKS.

5. What is the deadline for giving?
June 2, 2009! Your Class Marshals will present Dean Ellwood with a check at the 2009 Class Day Awards where they will also announce the winners of the raffle prizes.

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