The lasting impact of endowed gifts

Two hundred years of educational excellence was not built in a single moment—it was shaped by every student, every faculty member and every act of generosity. Every personal story is woven into that legacy, and when you use the right vehicle for your season of life, your chapter can become one of the most powerful yet.

How can each generation make a lasting difference?

For alumni and friends age 70½ and older, the IRA Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) is the gold standard of giving. In 2026 (and adjusted annually for inflation), donors may transfer up to $111,000 directly from their IRA to Case Western Reserve University—tax-free and counting toward their Required Minimum Distribution. Better yet, a QCD can fund a permanent endowment, creating lasting impact today, tomorrow and forever.

For individuals still on professional journeys, their portfolios may actually be the most powerful giving tool. Donating appreciated stock to CWRU may mean avoiding capital gains taxes, a deduction and a bigger impact. Another option? Under the latest federal tax law, taxpayers who take the standard deduction can claim an above-the-line charitable deduction—up to $1,000 for individuals or $2,000 for couples—on cash gifts to qualified public charities. That means support for CWRU now, reduction of taxable income later and use of the standard deduction—no itemizing required. 

What if a permanent endowment is not in my future?

Your place in the CWRU story is irreplaceable, and your giving strategy should be just as personal—crafted for the life you have built and the legacy you wish to leave. When your generosity is paired with the right giving strategy, your impact becomes truly timeless. It is our privilege to help you design that philanthropic legacy.

For more information, contact strategicgiving@case.edu or 216.368.4460.

Amanda Pinney, JD
Assistant Vice President of Strategic Giving
Case Western Reserve University
strategicgiving@case.edu 
216.368.6958