Leave a Legacy
Welcome, Class of 2026!
As the largest class in RPI’s history, we have the chance to leave a lasting legacy. Support from our class to the Rensselaer Union will help restore the electric bell system atop the Rensselaer Union, bringing back hourly chimes and the Alma Mater at noon.
I invite you to support this project or any area of campus that has made an impact on your RPI experience. Gifts of $100+ (or $10/month) made by June 30, 2026 qualify you for the Patroon Society Commencement Cord — a meaningful way to show your pride at graduation. Read more below. We encourage you to join us in this effort.
Let’s give back to RPI,
Matteo K. Cereola
Class of 2026 Gift Chair / Class of 2026 Senator
Join the Patroon Society. Earn Your Cord.
A tradition of leadership giving starts with you.
As you prepare to graduate, you have the opportunity to step into a proud RPI tradition — one that honors leadership, generosity, and lifelong connection to your alma mater.
By making a Patroon-level gift or commitment as a senior, you’ll receive the exclusive Patroon Society Cord to wear at Commencement, signifying your dedication to making a difference.
What is the Patroon Society?
The Patroon Society is Rensselaer’s leadership giving community. Members are committed to sustaining the university’s excellence and supporting what matters most: students, innovation, and impact.
You can become one of the youngest members in Institute history — starting with your current students and especially in your senior year.
Membership is offered to current students and young alumni at the following levels:
| Current students | $100 |
| Graduates in the last 4 years | $250 |
| Graduates 5-9 years out | $500 |
| Graduates 10-14 years out | $1,000 |
Your Senior Commitment
To earn your Patroon Society Cord, you must make a gift or commitment totaling $100 or more during your senior year. Give anywhere that is meaningful to you. Your club, your department, your chapter, your team, your RPI.
That could be:
- A one-time gift of $100
- A monthly commitment — as little as $10/month for 10 months
This flexible option allows you to make a meaningful impact on your terms while officially joining RPI’s leadership giving society.
Why It Matters
- Support the programs and experiences that shaped your time at RPI
- Join a community of alumni leaders who believe in giving back
- Set the tone for your lifelong connection to RPI
When & How to Give
Opportunities to join and commit will be available throughout your senior year:
- Countdown to Commencement (Spring Semester TBA)
- Rπ Giving Day (March 14)
- Or any time via our online giving page
Cord Distribution
Your Patroon Society Cord will be distributed at the Zero-Year Reunion Picnic and Commencement Rehearsal in May — one last celebration with your classmates before Commencement.
