Recognition of Giving
Sarah & Joseph Thralls Society ($1,000,000 & over) – Holding in the highest regard, the couple who opened their home to Saint Mother Theodore and her companions when they arrived in 1840, gifts at this level embody the sacrificial generosity and selfless spirit of the original benefactors of our founding sisters.
The 1840 Society ($500,000 – $999,999) – Honoring our history, while providing for our future, the 1840 Society reveres those donors whose transformative generosity touches thousands of lives and directly impacts the future of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.
Les Bois Society ($100,000 – $499,999) – Meaning The Woods, the Les Bois Society respectfully and affectionately acknowledges donors at this level with the same reverence as bestowed on the original Les Bois chronicles that hold Woods stories from our earliest beginnings.
Oak Leaf Society ($50,000 - $99,999) – Acknowledging the rich traditions of the Ring and of the Oak Leaf Ceremony; gifts at this level are very special and central to College heritage.
Our Lady of Providence Circle ($25,000 - $49,999) – Honors the patron saint of the Sisters of Providence, founders Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. Investment at this level ensures the on-going vitality of the College and its existence for generations to come.
Saint Mother Theodore Guerin Circle ($15,000 - $24,999) – Honors the courage, dedication and faith of the Foundress of the Sisters of Providence and Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, and makes possible the continuation of her mission to improve the lives of women and of society as a whole.
President’s Circle ($10,000 - $14,999) – Recognizes a level of annual giving that helps give life to the President’s vision and goals for Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.
Providence Circle ($8,000 - $9,999) – Honors Providence which, in the words of Saint Mother Theodore, “has never failed us.”
Pomeroy Circle ($5,000 - $7,999) – Honors Mary Joseph Pomeroy, SP, ’21 (Esther Pomeroy), Professor of English and French at the College for many years. In 1934, she became executive secretary of the Alumnae Association, and in 1961 was named vice president and director of Advancement. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods athletic teams bear her name in recognition of her athletic prowess when she was a student at The Woods.
Le Fer Circle ($2,500 – $4,999) – Honors the zeal and commitment of sisters Francis Xavier (Irma Le Fer) SP, and Mary Joseph (Elvire Le Fer) SP, who ministered with Saint Mother Theodore in the early years of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods Academy.
The Woods Club ($1,000 - $2,499) – In recognition of the beauty of The Woods and the quality of the educational experience at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.
Six Founders Club ($600 - $999) – Honors the six founders of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College who bravely faced the challenges of establishing an Academy for women in the early 1800s.
Third Century Giving Club ($300 - $599) – Reflects confidence in the future of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College as it continues the journey towards a third century of existence.
The Avenue Club ($1.00 - $299) – This Club is symbolized by the gates which are the official and welcoming entry to The Woods.
Recognition of Cumulative Giving
The Linden Tree Society ($100,000 & over) – The Linden tree can grow from 60 to 100 feet, has a straight trunk, usually grows ‘heart shaped’ and is often called the ‘resurrection tree’ because it regenerates itself. Legend has it that Saint Mother Theodore Guerin brought a linden tree with her from France to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. Those who have given $100,000 or more during their lifetimes are honored as part of the Linden Tree Society.
The Evergreen Society ($100,000 & over) – There are many different types of Evergreen trees. Each tree is unique, yet they all have the same overall symmetry. Each branch grows randomly, yet they fit together growing toward a common purpose. Evergreen trees, also known as the Tree of Life and Knowledge in early Christian history, represent the commitment and relationship each of our businesses, corporations, foundations and organizations have with Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. Those who have given $100,000 or more cumulatively are honored as part of the Evergreen Society.
Recognition of Estate Giving
President’s Guild - Donors who support the College with an estate plan gift provide the foundation for academic excellence in years to come. Through their generosity, President’s Guild members demonstrate so clearly how one generation can help the next. To receive recognition, please contact the Office of Advancement and notify us of your intent.


