Together we can touch lives.

Join us as we support exceptional graduate students and faculty shaping higher education and society.

For 75 years, the Institute for Citizens & Scholars has prepared new generations of American citizenry by opening doors to higher education; supporting visionary thinkers, scholars, and teachers; and creating a thoughtful space for innovation. Your gift will make an important impact on these leaders’ groundbreaking research, teaching, and public service for years to come. Consider the amazing things we can accomplish.

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Recent News

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025, contains changes that may impact how or when you choose to make a charitable gift. Here’s what to expect starting in 2026:

  • A new deduction for nonitemizers. Claim an above-the-line deduction of $1,000 ($2,000 for joint filers) for cash gifts to qualified public charities (excluding donor-advised funds). If you don’t typically itemize your taxes, this is a new opportunity to save.
  • A new cap on deductions for top earners. Itemizers in the 37% tax bracket will see their deductions capped at 35%. If you are in the highest tax bracket, consider giving now instead of waiting.
  • A new minimum giving threshold. All itemizers must give at least 0.5% of their adjusted gross income before claiming a deduction. You may want to give in 2025—or even bunch future gifts into this tax year.

One thing hasn’t changed—charitable giving is still a powerful way to make a difference, create a legacy, and make the most of tax-smart planning.

The Gift of Gratitude

Gratitude has a way of changing how we see the world. It centers us, even in the chaos of the season, and reminds us to pause and appreciate what matters most—family, purpose, and the chance to make the world a better place. At this time of year, we’re especially grateful for people like you, whose generosity strengthens our mission and changes lives in inspiring ways.

Read more about how your gifts change lives.

Thank you!

We appreciate your unique connection to Citizens & Scholars—and so do the talented people who receive our fellowships.

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Check out our FAQ

Do you have questions about making a gift to Citizens & Scholars but don’t know where to start?

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Leave an Enduring Legacy

The Fellows Legacy Society: Honoring the Transformative Power of Planned Giving

You hold the key to shaping a brighter future by creating opportunities for talented individuals to flourish. By including Citizens & Scholars in your estate plan, you advance our mission, create a meaningful legacy, and qualify to join other supporters as part of the Fellows Legacy Society.

Information contained in this website is current at the time of posting. It is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered technical or legal advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or other professional advisor when planning a charitable gift.