Alumni FAQ
1. How do I become a member of the Carleton University Alumni Association?
2. I have moved. How do I change my address with Alumni Relations?
3. I am graduating. How do I obtain an alumni ID Card?
4. How do I access the Carleton Café Web site?
5. When registering for the Carleton Café, do I choose my own password or is it assigned to me?
6. How do I obtain a copy of my transcript?
7. How do I obtain admission information for Carleton University?
8. How does Alumni Relations assist graduates with career services/job search/networking?
9. What are the Perks available to alumni association members, eg. (A) insurance; (B) library; (C) athletics?
10. Can alumni access online resources at the Library from off-campus locations?
11. How can I register for a Learning in Retirement course?
12. How do I rent a convocation gown, hood and cap for graduation pictures?
13. I am trying to contact a former classmate at Carleton. Can you help me get in touch?
14. How can I make a donation? Can I donate online?
15. How can I get involved as a volunteer?
16. Is there a formal reunion program at Carleton?
17. If my anniversary does not fall within one of the designated milestone anniversary years, what kind of support does the university provide?
18. Can I get a class list of names and contact information for my former classmates?
19. How do I order a Display Diploma?
20. Can I keep my Carleton Connect email account after graduation?
21. just changed my name. Can Carleton use my new name?
1. How do I become a member of the Carleton University Alumni Association?
A: All Carleton University students automatically become members of the Carleton University Alumni Association (CUAA) upon graduation. Students who have completed five full credits but are no longer registered at Carleton may also become members upon request. Membership in the CUAA is free.
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2. Q: I have moved. How do I change my address with Alumni Relations?
A: Update your info online at carleton.ca/alumni. Or, just send an email to cu_proud@carleton.ca with your alumni I.D. number and the updated information.
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3. Q: I am graduating. How do I obtain an alumni ID Card?
A: You can order your alumni ID card online, simply by registering in the Carleton Cafe at carleton.ca/alumni. Once you've logged in, click "Order your Alumni ID Card today." After you've completed the order form, your card will be mailed to you.
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4. Q: How do I access the Carleton Café Web site?
A: Visit carleton.ca/alumni and click on the link to the Carleton Café. Choose "I wish to register." Using your alumni I.D number (former student number), just follow the login instructions.
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5. Q: When registering for the Carleton Café, do I choose my own password or is it assigned to me?
A: Using your alumni I.D. (former student number) as your identification, you choose your own personal password.
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6. Q: How do I obtain a copy of my transcript?
A: Information about ordering transcripts is available on the Registrar’s Office website at http://www2.carleton.ca/registrar/your-record/transcript/.
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7. Q: How do I obtain admission information for Carleton University?
A: Visit the Admission Web site at carleton.ca/admissions.
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8. Q: How does Alumni Relations assist graduates with career services/job search/networking?
A: For assistance with your job search and other employment resources, visit Carleton's Career Services Web site at carleton.ca/career
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9. Q: What are the Perks available to alumni association members, eg. (A) insurance; (B) library; (C) athletics?
A: Carleton graduates have access to a wide variety of great rates, products and services. Our affinity partners offer services such as the BMO Bank of Montreal MasterCard; home and auto insurance from T.D. Insurance Meloche Monnex; life and health insurance from Manulife Financial; and financial management advice from Wellington West Clearsight.
Order your Alumni ID card for access to on-campus Perks! Your card gets you free borrowing at the Maxwell MacOdrum Library, special rates on athletic memberships; a discount on clothing and gifts at the Carleton University Bookstore, and reduced rates for summer accommodation in one of Carleton's hotel-quality residence rooms.
Drop by the Carleton Café for more information on all these fantastic alumni deals!
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10. Q: Can alumni access online resources at the Library from off-campus locations?
A: Graduates now have remote access to many significant online journals and databases for free, although some databases may require a unique login and password. Visit the library's Services for Alumni web page for more details about off-campus database access and to view a full list of resources.
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11. Q: How can I register for a Learning and Retirement course?
A: Carleton University's Centre for Initiatives in Education presents a daytime non-credit program for semi-retired and retired people, and others who are interested in learning for the fun of learning. Visit their Web site at carleton.ca/cie/LR.htm for more information.
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12. Q: How do I rent a convocation gown, hood and cap for graduation pictures?
A: Most photography studios have these items available, including Portraits Now, the portrait studio on campus.
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13. Q: I am trying to contact a former classmate at Carleton. Can you help me get in touch?
A: Check the Lost and Found feature inside the Carleton Café. If your classmate has registered in the Café, you might be able to find him/her using this online search tool. If s/he is not registered in the Café, University Advancement might be able to assist. Call us at 613-520-3636 or toll-free at 1-800-461-8972.
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14. Q: How can I make a donation? Can I donate online?
A: By giving to Carleton University you're joining a cadre of committed donors who are making a lasting impact. Giving is easy! You can support CU anytime day or night on the Giving to Carleton Web site. Or, to complete your donation without using the Internet, please call toll-free at 1-800-461-8972 or simply send a personal cheque, payable to Carleton University, to:
University Advancement Office
510 Robertson Hall
Carleton University
1125 Colonel By Drive
Ottawa, Ontario
K1S 5B6
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15. Q: How can I get involved as a volunteer?
A: Volunteers play a vital role in supporting the interests and advancement of the Carleton University Alumni Association (CUAA) and the university. Within the CUAA, there are positions available on the National Executive Council or on the executive of each branch, chapter or affiliate. For more information about volunteering for the CUAA, contact cu_proud@carleton.ca.
For more information about volunteering, please visit the Volunteering page under Supporting Carleton at carleton.ca/alumni
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16. Q: Is there a formal reunion program at Carleton?
A: Carleton University supports 10th, 20th, 25th, 30th, 40th, 45th and 50th milestone anniversary reunions as well as reunions for "Founders" those alumni who have already celebrated their 50th anniversary. These reunions are celebrated during Alumni Reunion Weekend held during the month of May. This annual event is organized by the Alumni Relations unit of the Department of University Advancement. For more information contact sarah_ripley@carleton.ca.
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17. Q: If my anniversary does not fall within one of the designated milestone anniversary years, what kind of support does the university provide?
A: Alumni Relations will assist individuals, classes or groups in organizing their reunions by providing advice and suggestions, such as offering ideas for venues, catering, etc. If timing permits, we can advertise your reunion on the events listing in Carleton University Magazine and in our faculty-specific alumni newsletters. Reunion organizing committees can also post messages and spread the word to other alumni about their upcoming reunion in the Carleton Café, an online community for Carleton University alumni. For more information, contact sarah_ripley@carleton.ca.
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18. Q: Can I get a class list of names and contact information for my former classmates?
A: No. Carleton University is committed to protecting the privacy of your personal information. Personal information about graduates cannot be disclosed to anyone other than Carleton employees or volunteers as required for their work in support of Carleton University.
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19. Q: How do I order a Display Diploma?
A: You may order a distinctive 11 x 14 inch display diploma, available for Carleton University graduates from all programs and all years, through the Registrar's Office at 300 Tory Building. Their telephone number is 613-520-3500. For more information, and to access the order form, go to: www.carleton.ca/registrar/forms/displaydiploma.htm.
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20. Q: Can I keep my Carleton Connect email account after graduation?
A: Yes, starting with the June 2004 convocation, the University has extended Connect email accounts to all graduates as a pilot project. Note: Your Connect email account may be de-activated if it is not accessed for a period of more than 90 days.
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21. Q: I just changed my name. Can Carleton use my new name?
A: Unless otherwise notified, Carleton University will use the name on your original student record for all official correspondence and transactions. If you have legally changed your name, Carleton will update your official student record upon request. Complete this form and return it by mail to the Registrar's Office. To prevent fraudulent activity, we require that you also provide two pieces of identification (one of which must be photo identification, ie. driver's license or passport). Photocopies or scanned images are acceptable. Other acceptable identification includes a marriage certificate, birth certificate, an official change of name certificate, or immigration documentation.
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Annual Fund FAQ
1. What is the Annual Fund?
2. Why is the Annual Fund important?
3. What are Carleton’s top fundraising priorities?
4. Why should I give each year?
5. I can only afford to make a small donation. Does my gift really make a difference?
6. How will my gift impact Carleton students?
7. Will I receive a tax credit for my gift?
8. I reside in the United States. Is my gift tax deductible?
9. Will my company match my gift?
10. What recognition programs for annual giving exist at Carleton?
11. To whom should I speak to about establishing a scholarship or bursary at Carleton?
12. My financial situation has changed. May I modify my pledge?
13. I have not heard from Carleton recently. Am I still in your database?
14. My spouse and I both attended Carleton; can we make joint gifts?
15. How can I update my records?
16. To whom should I make my cheque payable?
17. What if I have any other questions?
1. Q: What is the Annual Fund?
A: Each year, Carleton University contacts alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and friends in order to raise funds for student programs, new facilities, and other university wide priority projects.
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2. Q: Why is the Annual Fund important?
A: Gifts to the Annual Fund shape the future of Carleton by providing funds for scholarships and bursaries, library acquisitions, equipment, and facilities. Over 22,000 students benefit from the Annual Fund each year.
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3. Q: What are Carleton’s top fundraising priorities?
A: Each year the Annual Fund supports the areas of greatest need on campus. This year, the Annual Fund supports scholarships and bursaries, library acquisitions, and the Centre for Initiatives in Education.
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4. Q: Why should I give each year?
A: When you renew your gift to Carleton each year, you are helping make a commitment to the future of the university.
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5. Q: I can only afford to make a small gift. Does my gift really make a difference?
A: Every gift, regardless of size, is greatly appreciated. Your gift, combined with others, becomes very significant to Carleton University.
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6. Q: How will my gift impact students?
A: The Annual Fund has an impact on every Carleton student by funding scholarships and bursaries, library acquisitions and new facilities. For example, this year, the Annual Fund helped advance the MacOdrum Library by raising funds for the Learning Commons Equipment Fund and the Lap Top Loan Program.
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7. Q: Will I receive a tax credit for my gift?
A: Yes. All gifts to Carleton University will be receipted for income tax purposes. Charitable tax receipts are issued upon receipt of your cheque. Gifts made by credit card or pre-authorized bank payments are receipted annually.
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8. Q: I reside in the United States. Is my gift tax deductible?
A: We are often asked by our alumni in the United States if they can support the University and receive tax benefits. The answer is yes! Under the Canada-US Income Tax Convention, a citizen or resident of the United States is entitled to a U.S. income tax deduction for gifts to Carleton University, provided the donor or a family member is or was enrolled at the University.
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9. Q: Will my company match my gift?
A: Many Canadian companies will match donations their employees make to registered charities and community organizations. Ask your human resources or personnel department for the appropriate form. Complete your portion, then sent it to University Advancement at Carleton University. Carleton will complete its portion of the form – and send it back to your company, which will make the match. If you’d like to find out if your company matches donations please search our database.
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10. Q: What recognition programs for annual giving exist at Carleton?
A: The Tory Society, our unique recognition program for annual donors, honours individuals who've gone above and beyond the call. You can visit our benefits of giving website at http://www2.carleton.ca/giving/
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11. Q: To whom should I speak to about establishing a scholarship or bursary at Carleton?
A: You can visit our website at http://www2.carleton.ca/giving/what-you-can-support/411/establishing-an-award/ or contact Elizabeth DiSabato at (613) 520-2600 ext. 8977 or by email at elizabeth_disabato@carleton.ca to find out more about establishing a scholarship or bursary.
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12. Q: My financial situation has changed. May I modify my pledge?
A: Yes of course you can. Please contact Fran Platt at ( 613) 520-2600 ext. 8653 or by email at fran_platt@carleton.ca.
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13. Q: I have not heard from Carleton recently. Am I still in your database?
A: Absolutely. However, we may not have your current information. If you are an alumnus, you can log onto the Carleton Café at http://alumni.carleton.ca/cafe/index.cfm to update your address. If you are not an alumnus and want to keep in touch with Carleton, please email advancement@carleton.ca with your contact information.
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14. Q: My spouse and I both attended Carleton; can we make joint gifts?
A: Yes you can. When making your gift, please include your spouse’s name, graduation year, and program and indicate that you would like to receive joint credit for the gift.
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15. Q: How can I update my records?
A: You can log onto the Carleton Café at http://alumni.carleton.ca/cafe/index.cfm to update your address or send an email to advancement@carleton.ca
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16. Q: To whom should I make my cheque payable?
A: Please make cheques payable to Carleton University.
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17. Q: What if I have any other questions?
A: Please contact University Advancement at (613) 520-3636, 1-800-461-8972 or advancement@carleton.ca.
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Phone Program FAQ
1. Who is calling me…is this a telemarketing company?
2. I am on the National Do Not Call List. Why are you calling me?
3. Where are you calling from?
4. Why are you calling me?
5. Why can't you just send me something in the mail?
6. Why do I get so many calls from Carleton?
7. My spouse and I are both CU alumni. Why do we both get calls?
8. When can I expect my call?
9. Why do you ask for so much money?
10. Why do you ask me to increase my gift every year?
11. How does my gift make a difference?
12. What happens after I make a pledge with a student over the phone?
1. Q: Who is calling me…is this a telemarketing company?
A: No – our staff is made up entirely of current Carleton students. We’re able to give the students valuable work experience and build their communication skills while they help their school succeed. This also gives you the opportunity to find out what’s happening on campus, ask questions, voice concerns, and support Carleton by making a pledge.
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2. Q: I am on the National Do Not Call List. Why are you calling me?
A: Carleton University is a charitable organization. “Do Not Call” lists are designed for telemarketing companies. However, if you ask us not to call you again, we will include you in our own “Do Not Call” list and tailor your record accordingly.
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3. Q: Where are you calling from?
A: Our phone program is located in Robertson Hall, right on Carleton’s campus.
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4. Q: Why are you calling me?
A: Our Annual Fund objective through the phone program is to contact all of our alumni, parents, and friends so that the University can keep in touch with you annually. We want to make sure you are receiving the Carleton Magazine and your faculty newsletter. We also want to share the university’s good news with you, provide information on current Carleton priorities, and ask for your support.
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5. Q: Why can't you just send me something in the mail?
A: We often contact alumni, parents, and friends through the mail. However, we believe that the chance to speak with a Carleton student personally allows us to share Carleton’s good news stories and respond to your concerns directly.
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6. Q: Why do I get so many calls from Carleton?
A: We do our best to call each household only once a year. If you do get more than one call please let the caller know and we will do our best to ensure that it does not happen again.
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7. Q: My spouse and I are both CU alumni. Why do we both get calls?
A: You both get personal calls because we want to give each of you personal attention and so we can update you individually about activities and news from the faculty you graduated.
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8. Q: When can I expect my call?
A: Our phone program runs during the school year. We try to reach all alumni, parents and friends of the University between September and April each year.
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9. Q: Why do you ask for so much money?
A: Our ask amounts reflect the size of the average gift and the current needs of the university. We understand if these amounts are beyond your reach at this time. However, participation in the phone program at any level is greatly appreciated.
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10. Q: Why do you ask me to increase my gift every year?
A: Any increase in your annual gift helps the Annual Fund and the University tremendously.
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11. Q: How does my gift make a difference?
A: Never underestimate the impact of your gift! Gifts of any size make a difference to students and the university. Plus, alumni participation is one of the best measures of how graduates feel about their university and the education they received. Your participation demonstrates your endorsement of Carleton and your commitment to current students, and helps build lifelong pride among all graduates.
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12. Q: What happens after I make a pledge with a student over the phone?
A: After confirming the dollar amount you wish to donate and the area you’d like to support with the student caller, you can make your gift over the phone by credit card or request a pledge package be sent to you in the mail.
If you use your credit card your gift will be put to use immediately and you will help us reduce our mailing costs.
If you opt to have a letter sent out, please return the pledge form with your gift as soon as possible.
You can also fulfill your gift online.
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Community Campaign FAQ
1. What is the Campus Community Campaign?
2. I contribute to the success of the university everyday, why should I contribute financially as well?
3. How can my gift make a difference?
4. How much should I give?
5. Can I choose where my gift will be directed?
6. Can I designate to more than one area?
7. None of the University Wide Priorities interest me. Are there any other options?
8. Is my gift tax deductible?
9. I'm taking a leave or planning to go on sabbatical.
10. Will you or anyone else know how much I've contributed, if any?
11. If my financial circumstances change, can I alter my pledge?
12. How can I give?
1. Q: What is the Campus Community Campaign?
A: This annual appeal to Carleton Faculty and Staff helps ensure that Carleton continues to grow and develop new and exciting opportunities for our students. By supporting Student Aid, Athletics, or the MacOdrum Library, we can give back to the university we care so much about.
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2. Q: I already work at the university and contribute to its success everyday, why should I contribute financially as well?
A: You have already answered your Question. Each of us should give because we do work here and the University is an important part of our lives. The Campus Community Campaign is an opportunity for you to support something that you really care about here at Carleton. As members of the University community we can all see first hand how expensive it has become to obtain a post-secondary education. For some, it will soon be out of reach unless we can generate enough financial support to increase scholarships, bursaries or alternate funding for programs and resources. Faculty and Staff support can go a long way to helping.
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3. Q: How can my gift make a difference?
A: Your gift, no matter what the size, will make a significant difference, especially for students. A significant level of internal participation from Faculty and Staff can demonstrate to alumni, friends and corporations that we care about and believe in Carleton's future which can inspire them to give generously themselves. Together, we help build a stronger, more vibrant university.
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4. Q: How much should I give?
A: Giving is a very personal decision. We encourage you to contribute the best of your ability. Your participation is what counts.
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5. Q: Can I choose where my gift will be directed?
A: Yes! Our priorities for this year include the Campus Community Campaign Bursary, bolstering the existing Centre for Initiatives in Education (CIE) Endowment and increasing support for the MacOdrum Library. There are, however, over 700 designations at Carleton to choose from. You can support any area that you care about from student financial assistance to a specific faculty or department. Rest assured that your contribution will go to that designation and nowhere else unless you decide to change it.
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6. Q: Can I designate to more than one area?
A: Certainly. You can choose as many as you like. Just indicate the area and the amount of each designation on the pledge card.
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7. Q: None of the University Wide Priorities interest me. Are there any other options?
A: Absolutely. Several key areas of need have been identified by the University, but you don't have to support those areas. Mary Kange, Annual Giving Officer, will be happy to explore other options with you. If you choose not to support an existing fund, you might consider pooling your contributions together with your colleagues. For as little as $500 annually for five years, you can create and name an endowed award, determine the criteria and support a student according to your area of interest. The interest accrued annually can fund a bursary in perpetuity.
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8. Q: Is my gift tax deductible?
A: Absolutely, 100%. You will benefit from an official tax receipt for any gift. Payroll deductions will appear on your T4 slip for the corresponding year.
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9. Q: I'm taking a leave or planning to go on sabbatical.
A: You can still make a contribution by designing a payment schedule that suits your needs. A convenient instalment plan can be set up with credit card or cheque payment options.
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10. Q: Will you or anyone else know how much I've contributed, if any?
A: No. All gifts are confidential. Only the Department of University Advancement and payroll personnel will know what you decided, and that information will remain confidential. We do list donor names in our annual Donor Report, for those individuals who join our H.M. Tory Society by giving $500 or more in a calendar year or whose lifetime giving exceeds $25,000. If you qualify for the Donor Report but would prefer not to be listed, we will respect your choice.
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11. Q: If my financial circumstances change, can I alter my pledge?
A: Of course. Giving is a very personal decision, and a voluntary one. You can change the terms at any time. Simply call the Department of University Advancement.
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12. Q: How can I give?
A: Payroll Deduction is the easiest way to give. We can set up your pledge to have your gift deducted from your monthly pay. We can also set up an ongoing pledge on credit card or by pre-authorized debit from your bank account. One time gifts can be made by credit card, cheque, or cash. To make a gift of appreciated securities contact Rowena Griffiths at ext. 2484 or by email at rowena_grifftiths@carleton.ca. or to make a gift in kind please contact Fran Platt at ext. 8976 to explore this giving option.
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Class Act FAQ
1. What does my Class Act donation support?
2. How much of the money will support the cause?
3. How can I make my gift?
4. Who do I make my Cheque out to?
5. Will I get a tax receipt?
6. How are the funds administered?
7. Where can I get more information?
8. Why are you asking me for a donation, I don't have any extra money!
9. I worked my way through school; I don't want to support other students.
1. Q: What does my Class Act donation support?
A: As in the past, all donations to Class Act will be directed towards creating a bursary named in honor of your graduation year. With your support, Carleton will be able to create the Class of 2010 Bursary to help students in financial need.
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2. Q: How much of the money will support the cause?
A: 100% of all dollars raised will be allocated towards endowing the Class of 2010 Bursary!
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3. Q: How can I make my gift?
A: Online on Carleton's secure site http://www2.carleton.ca/giving or by responding to the pledge letter or phone call.
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4. Q: Who do I make my Cheque out to?
A: Carleton University
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5. Q: Will I get a tax receipt?
A: Yes. All donations to Carleton are receipted, and you can claim your donation on your income tax return.
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6. Q: How are the funds administered?
A: All donations are receipted by the Department of University Advancement. Once endowed, the Class of 2007 Bursary will be awarded by the Awards Office to an Ontario student in financial need.
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7. Q: Where can I get more information?
A: Visit www.carleton.ca/classact or contact Mary Kange at mary_kange@carleton.ca
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8. Q: Why are you asking me for a donation, I don't have any extra money!
A: Class Act is a great way to support future students needing financial aid by creating a bursary that will exist in perpetuity. Many Carleton students are currently experiencing financial strain, but a donation of just $20.10 will help us reach our goal. Plus, we'll send a tribute letter to someone special to you on your behalf letting them know that you appreciate their support.
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9. Q: I worked my way through school; I don't want to support other students.
A: Many Carleton students do work to pay their way through school, but with tuition so high, student financial aid is increasingly important. We're asking graduates to make a contribution to Class Act to lend a hand to students who are juggling work and school and still not making ends meet.
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