TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Make a Lasting Impact!

When you're a part of giving to Sam Houston State University, you're not just  making SHSU a better place. You're essentially impacting the world by helping to ensure that the university continues to deliver an exceptional education-one that is student-centered and focused on extraordinary teaching.

Reasons to Give

How to Give

Types of Gifts

Thank you for your support

Recognition societies honor and thank alumni and friends who provide a high level of support to SHSU.  Contributors who reach these levels between September 1 and August 31 are listed in our online donor database.

• The Samuel Houston Society
  The society commemorates Texas’ greatest hero and the university’s namesake. Members of The Samuel Houston Society will be invited to an annual program honoring their contribution. 

  The President's Associates - $25,000 or more

  The General's Associates - $10,000 to $24,999

  The Senator's Associates - $5,000 to $9,999

  The Governor's Associates - $2,500 to $4,999

• The Old Main Society
  The society commemorates the historic significance of the building that was completed in 1890 and destroyed by fire in 1982. Revered as a traditional symbol of the university, its foundation footprint is maintained. Members have donated between $1,250-$2,499
• The Austin Hall Society
  The society commemorates the oldest building on campus, dedicated in 1851 for Austin College with Gen. Sam Houston in attendance. A group of Huntsville citizens acquired the building and donated it to the state in 1879 to open Sam Houston Normal Institute. Members have donated between $750-$1,249
• The Harry F. Estill Society
  The society commemorates the university leader who served as president for 29 years, longer than anyone in Sam Houston State history. Among his many achievements, the curriculum was expanded and the first baccalaureate degree was awarded in 1919. Members have donated between $500-$749
• The Mallon-Smith Founders Society
  The society commemorates the dedication and sacrifices of establishing Sam Houston State Normal Institute. Bernard Mallon, the first president, died 11 days after classes began on October 10, 1879. Hildreth H. Smith took over and guided the college until 1881. Members have donated between $250-$499
• The Anniversary Society
  The society recognizes donors who contribute at least one dollar for each year of the university’s existence during the past academic year. On September 1, 2023, the minimum gift requirement for society listing increased one dollar to $144 for the university’s 144 years of service. Members have donated between $144-$249
• The 1879 Society
  The 1879 Society commemorates the university's founding and recognizes individuals who make planned gifts. Gift planning enables donors to make lasting contributions that are often larger than their ability to make an outright cash gift. Planned gifts include appreciated assets, bequests, gift annuities, trusts, life insurance, and real estate.