Winter 2026 Small Shop Roundtable Discussion: Naming Policies-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this CASE roundtable, Meg Gnatter introduced a discussion led by Lynnetta Coney (Mott Community College) and Dr. Shea James Boyd (Henry Ford College) on naming opportunities in community colleges to boost fundraising. The focus was on different naming models—perpetual versus time-limited naming rights—governance, valuation, policies, and legal considerations, including morality clauses and gift fulfillment.<br /><br />Mott Community College typically offers naming in perpetuity, while Henry Ford College uses limited-term naming (e.g., 3-5 years) to encourage renewed giving and adapt to changing circumstances. Both emphasized involving institutional leadership and legal counsel, and creating clear memorandums of understanding outlining donation terms, recognition, and contingencies.<br /><br />Discussion included valuing naming rights based on building cost, maintenance, and program needs. Some colleges offer naming from $50,000 to multi-millions, tailored to their market. Challenges covered included handling naming when buildings are demolished (e.g., salvaging bricks), addressing pledge defaults, and ensuring unrestricted versus designated gifts support institutional priorities.<br /><br />Participants shared strategies like naming smaller spaces or objects (trees, benches) for donor engagement, corporate partnerships, and incorporating endowments for maintenance and program innovation. Overall, the roundtable underscored flexible, transparent policies and stewardship to maximize donor support while protecting institutional interests.

Keywords

Naming Rights

Community Colleges

Fundraising Strategies

Perpetual Naming

Time-Limited Naming

Gift Valuation

Legal Considerations

Donor Stewardship

Endowments