SOME QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE
AND ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS
How is receiving two requests different from receiving only requests from the AADC?
In the past, the AADC solicited contributions from alumnae and friends through the Douglass Annual Fund appeals. (As you know, the AADC also successfully raised nearly $42 million in the recently-concluded Campaign for Douglass, and solicited alumnae in other capital campaigns.) The AADC then stewarded these gifts.
- Gifts designated for a particular purpose, be it a College program such as The Douglass Project, a student scholarship, or a program run by the AADC were used for the designated purpose.
- Undesignated gifts were allocated by the Board of Directors. These gifts were used to support programs for students and alumnae, as well as to cover the general expenses of the Association.
Contributors were kept informed as to the use of their contributions in the AADC Annual Report, published annually in January and sent to all alumnae and friends. It is also available on line by
clicking here. See pages 8 and 9 for information on funds raised and allocated.
Since April 20th, any funds raised by the AADC are being used primarily for the AADC, our initiatives and programs. As the Rutgers University Foundation begins to raise funds for Douglass, those contributions (after a gift assessment fee is deducted) will be used for a Douglass Residential College program. We understand that the Rutgers University Foundation will solicit alumnae on behalf of Douglass Residential College for the Douglass Residential College Excellence Fund, and the following DRC program areas: Student Scholarships, Educating Global Leaders, Supporting Women in STEM, and Leadership & Career Development.
Are the dual requests likely to continue after mediation is complete?
We can't comment on mediation progress or outcome. Our goal, however, has always been to come to a resolution that is mutually acceptable to all parties including the AADC and Douglass Residential College.
What is the status of mediation?
The AADC is working hard to reach a mutually acceptable resolution for the benefit of AADC, DRC, alumnae and students, and Rutgers University.
When I receive a request, how will I know whether it is from the AADC or RUF?
Starting in November, the AADC will utilize the name "Associate Alumnae of Douglass College Annual Appeal" on all of our annual fundraising requests. AADC will continue to use student callers, who will identify themselves as calling on behalf of the Douglass Alumnae or AADC. We do not know how The Rutgers University Foundation will identify itself. They have agreed not to use our prior appeal name, "Douglass Annual Fund," so alumnae in the habit of giving to that appeal will not think the request is from the AADC.
What should I do?
With regard to your contribution, know the facts and make your own informed decision. If it is helpful:
- Some alumnae have decided to only support the AADC.
- Some alumnae have chosen to increase their support of the AADC during this time to assist in our efforts to come to resolution. THESE GIFTS ARE NEEDED AND ESPECIALLY APPRECIATED.
- Some alumnae may decide to support the RUF.
- Some alumnae may decide to support the AADC and the RUF.
With regard to our mediation efforts, please continue to make your voices heard in requesting a fair process. Direct your thoughts to:
To make a gift, make your check payable to "AADC"