Virginia Tech® home

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Beyond Boundaries Scholars program?

The Beyond Boundaries Scholars program was created in 2016 as a presidential initiative to support high-achieving students who may not otherwise have the means to attend Virginia Tech.

Why should I support the Beyond Boundaries Scholars program?

There are many reasons why supporters invest in Beyond Boundaries scholars. Learn about current and past scholars and the impact the scholarship has had on their lives, and those of their families. Donors supporting the program with a gift of $3,000 or more have the opportunity to participate in the program in the following ways:

  • Receive university gift matching, dollar for dollar.
  • Choose to support the university-wide fund (utilized where we have the greatest need) and/or a specific college(s).
  • Name their scholarship (example: the Addison Caldwell Beyond Boundaries Scholar).
  • Connect with a student recipient.
  • Attend an event to meet the recipients and other donors supporting the program.

Donors may also support the program with gifts below $3,000, by giving to the Beyond Boundaries Scholars Annual Fund.

Why did I receive a letter from a Beyond Boundaries scholar?

The Beyond Boundaries Scholars program gives students access to the resources they need to be successful in their academic endeavors by helping them attend Virginia Tech. To thank you for this life-changing investment, scholars write personal letters explaining how your support has helped them and their families.

How does the Beyond Boundaries Scholars program use the money it receives?

  • Your gift will be used to pay for tuition and fees.
  • All money gifted to the program is allocated to Virginia Tech’s colleges to support as many students as possible.

Can I choose where my gift is allocated?

Yes, gifts of a minimum of $3,000 can be designated to a universitywide fund or specifically to the following colleges: 

  • College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
  • College of Architecture, Arts, and Design
  • Pamplin College of Business
  • College of Engineering
  • College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences
  • College of Natural Resources and Environment
  • College of Science

Gifts cannot be designated to a certain major. 

How does gift matching work?

  • Virginia Tech will match a gift of $3,000 or more. For example, if you personally contribute $5,000, you will receive gift credit for a total of $10,000.
  • Company matching does not apply to the Virginia Tech matching credit. For example, if you personally contribute $5,000, your company may match it one to one with another $5,000, but Virginia Tech will only match your personal gift of $5,000, resulting in a total gift of $15,000.

How do I pledge my support?

  • You can pledge your support for three to five years.
  • Pledges are a minimum of $3,000 per year, which connects you with a Beyond Boundaries scholar (student recipient of the program).
  • There is no maximum gift amount.

How do I make a gift?

To make a gift to the Beyond Boundaries Scholars program, please contact:

Matt Goff
Director of Major Gifts and Leadership Development
mattgoff@vt.edu
540-231-5813

Can I use a donor advised fund (DAF) or independent retirement account (IRA) to make a contribution?

Yes, to learn more please contact Matt Goff.