Family Philanthropy Circle
The Family Philanthropy Circle provides powerful leadership support, strengthening the College and connecting families to Middlebury’s traditions, top administrators, and forward-thinking faculty.
Join us in this community and contribute to a legacy of leadership and positive change.
A Special Community with Deep Impact
Behind every student’s journey at Middlebury, we see the support and encouragement of their family. Our students’ success, their ability to thrive as engaged learners and active community members, is inspired by family support.
Through the Family Philanthropy Circle, we invite you to deepen your own relationship with Middlebury by joining a community of parents, grandparents, and families dedicated to enhancing the student experience.
Hone Your Impact
Every Family Philanthropy Circle member supports the Parents’ Fund or another current-use fund. Many of our members expand on that support to enhance a specific area of the College that is meaningful to their student and their family. Making a gift to Middlebury can accomplish a wide variety of philanthropic goals: from support for financial aid and faculty to facilities and athletics, and more. All corners of our campus are touched by the generosity of Middlebury families.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the benefits of membership?
Family Philanthropy Circle members enjoy these special benefits and exclusive opportunities, including the following:
- Advanced Communications
Receive insider updates and messages from Middlebury leadership, keeping you in touch with the College’s priorities and vision. - Special Invitations
Be a part of invitation-only events, from on-campus meetings and regional gatherings to virtual sessions featuring our distinguished faculty and administrators. - A Community of Invested Families
Network with other highly engaged families and alumni who are deeply connected to Middlebury. - Personal Connections with College Leaders
Enjoy opportunities to meet with senior administrators and learn more about strategic goals and initiatives.
Is there a minimum commitment to join?
Our Family Philanthropy Circle members lead by example, making annual current-use gifts of $10,000 or more (Parents’ Fund preferred) to support the student experience. This leadership giving plays a vital role in helping Middlebury address immediate needs and plan for the future.
For those able to consider a broader commitment, we encourage families to explore multiyear campaign gifts at the six-figure level and beyond, which help ensure Middlebury’s continued success.
What are different ways I can participate as an FPC member?
We understand that each Family Philanthropy Circle family has a unique connection to Middlebury and varying capacities to get involved. We offer a “volunteer buffet table,” where you can choose the opportunities that best fit your interests and availability:
- Career Support
Partner with the Center for Careers and Internships by offering internships, hosting career treks, or serving as a mentor. - Peer Engagement
Serve as an ambassador by welcoming our newest families to the Middlebury community on behalf of the Family Philanthropy Circle. - Community Building
In consultation with the Office of Advancement, consider hosting welcome receptions for new families or regional gatherings. - Event Attendance
Participate in Middlebury programs to expand your network and deepen your knowledge of the College. - Outreach
Encourage other parents to get involved and to support Middlebury through their philanthropy.
Meet a Family Philanthropy Circle Member
Middlebury has been a perfect fit for our family, and being part of the Family Philanthropy Circle has only deepened that connection. Through FPC, I’ve met inspiring leaders and parents who share my commitment to making a difference. Volunteering has enabled me to stay engaged, give back, and feel a real sense of pride in supporting a place my family loves.
Sally Thurston P’23.5, ’25
Learn More
If you are interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities with the Family Philanthropy Circle, contact Katherine Copeland, associate director of family philanthropy, at familyphilanthropy@middlebury.edu.