Invest in the People Who Help People

As technology takes on more routine and technical work, distinctly human abilities become even more important in an increasingly automated world. Sound judgment, empathy, ethical decision-making, and the ability to understand others are central to PAU’s education, research, and clinical training.

The cost of higher education can make it difficult for talented students to begin or complete their degrees. At PAU, 55% of students are the first in their families to attend college. Scholarships and emergency assistance can ease financial pressure and help students remain focused on the work they came here to do.

The need for well-prepared behavioral health professionals extends far beyond campus. PAU graduates serve people in clinics, hospitals, schools, community organizations, workplaces, and private practice. Supporting one student can benefit hundreds of people during that graduate’s career.

Research funding is competitive and federal funding has declined. Philanthropy provides flexible support that can help faculty and students explore new questions, begin promising projects, and turn research into practical approaches that improve people’s lives.

PAU is a private, nonprofit university. PAU’s fiscal year 2024 reporting shows that 94% of revenue came from program services, while only 4% came from contributions and grants. PAU devoted approximately 75% of its expenses to program services. Philanthropy provides the additional flexibility to invest in important needs and opportunities beyond the university’s operating budget.

More than half of gifts to PAU are $50 or less. Together, these gifts make a meaningful difference. A modest contribution can help cover a student’s transportation or make an affordable counseling session available to a low-income family.

However you choose to give, your participation shows confidence in PAU’s mission and in the people preparing to serve others.

Make a secure one-time or recurring gift using a major credit or debit card.

To make a gift by domestic or international wire transfer, complete PAU’s Wire Transfer Request Form and provide it to your bank or financial adviser. Please also email a copy to giving@paloaltou.edu so we can acknowledge and properly designate your gift.

Gifts of publicly traded stocks, bonds, or mutual funds may provide tax benefits while supporting PAU. Complete PAU’s Securities Transfer Form, initiate the transfer through your broker, and email a copy of the form to giving@paloaltou.edu so we can properly credit your gift.

Recommend a grant to Palo Alto University through your donor-advised fund. Please include your name and intended gift designation so we can acknowledge and direct your gift correctly.

Examples:

• Fidelity Charitable
• DAFgiving360 (Schwab Charitable)
• Goldman Sachs Philanthropy Fund
• Silicon Valley Community Foundation
• UBS
• Vanguard Charitable

PAU employees can support students and university priorities through one-time or recurring gifts. Payroll deduction is also available.

Please contact Maya Ramakrishnan, Controller | Finance & Operations Division, mramakrishnan@paloaltou.edu, to learn more about employee giving options.

Your employer may match your charitable contribution, potentially doubling or tripling its impact. Matching-gift programs may also be available to retirees and spouses. Check with your employer or contact us for assistance.

PAU works with companies and foundations to support scholarships, research, clinical and community programs, student success, and other university priorities.

Contact Institutional Advancement to discuss grants, sponsorships, and philanthropic partnerships.