Donor Recognition
From its founding, Magdalene College has depended on the generosity of alumni and friends to ensure that its teaching, research, and the student experience are outstanding. In recognition of your support, we are delighted to provide a range of giving circles with associated benefits:
The Donors' List
All donors who have given during the previous financial year (1 July – 30 June) are listed in the annual Impact Report (except those who have stated that they wish to remain anonymous). Those who are members of the Pepys’ Circle (£25,000 and above), the Master's Guild (£100,000 and above), or Buckingham Society (legators) are highlighted accordingly. Donors from the last financial year who have given over £100 are invited to join the Master at our annual Benefactors’ Drinks. In addition, at the Commemoration of Benefactors service, held in the Chapel during Lent term each year, we remember principal benefactors over the past six centuries, whose vision and philanthropy have sustained and enhanced Magdalene.
The 1542 Society (£1,000 + or continuous giving for 5 years)
The 1542 Society acknowledges donors who have given over £1,000 to College (including Gift Aid), or those who have chosen to support Magdalene on a regular basis for 5 years or more. Upon admission into the society Members receive a certificate, a 1542 Society pin badge and are listed in the annual Impact Report.
The Pepys Circle (£25,000+)
The Pepys Circle recognises donors who have given in excess of £25,000 (including Gift Aid). Members receive a Pepys Circle pin badge, which is based on the historic bookplate Pepys' added to the items in his library collection (image on left), are invited to the annual Pepys Dinner, the annual Benefactors’ Drinks, and are listed in the annual Impact Report.
The Master’s Guild (£100,000+)
Membership of The Master’s Guild is conferred on donors who have given more than £100,000 (including Gift Aid). Members receive a Master’s Guild cut glass paperweight, are invited to attend the annual Master’s Guild Dinner, the annual Pepys Dinner, the annual Benefactors’ Drinks, and are listed in the annual Impact Report.
Pepys Benefactor Fellows (£1,000,000+)
The Governing Body may elect individuals who have made transformational gifts to Magdalene as Pepys Benefactor Fellows to recognise their exceptional philanthropy and positive impact on the College. Pepys Benefactor Fellows have Honorary Fellow status, and as full members of the Senior Combination Room may dine in College, attend College Feasts, and are entitled to stay in Fellows’ Guest Rooms free of charge for three nights a year.
The Buckingham Society (Legators)
Membership of the Buckingham Society, named in honour of the Buckingham family who were the College’s principal benefactors in the 15th century, is open to Members who have generously pledged a legacy to Magdalene. Buckingham Society Members are invited to the biennial Buckingham Society Lunch, to the Benefactors drinks in alternate years, and are listed in the annual Impact Report.
University Recognition
Donors to Magdalene College are also donors to Collegiate Cambridge, and as such may be nominated for membership in the University's Guild of Benefactors (for individuals donating in excess of £1 million), and the Vice-Chancellor's Circle (for individuals donating £250,000 or more).