Purple & Gold Society
Leadership Giving within ECU Athletics
The Purple & Gold Society recognizes visionary donors whose annual philanthropic leadership creates transformational opportunities for ECU student-athletes while supporting recruitment and retention efforts that position ECU Athletics for long-term success.
What Is the Purple & Gold Society?
Established in 2025, the Purple & Gold Society is a leadership giving society created to support ECU Athletics through increased philanthropic revenue and improved student-athlete experiences for more than 430 ECU student-athletes.
The Society was designed with both student-athletes and donors in mind. Gifts are philanthropic in nature and reward donors with unique experiences and opportunities within ECU Athletics. Donor-advised funds, stock gifts and matching gifts are accepted, and gifts are not tied to tickets or parking.
Why Leadership Giving Matters
Recruitment & Retention
Leadership support helps ECU Athletics attract, develop and retain outstanding student-athletes.
Student-Athlete Experience
Gifts support scholarships, operations and opportunities that enhance the experience of current and future Pirates.
Long-Term Success
Society members provide critical philanthropic support that helps ECU Athletics meet current challenges and champion new opportunities.
Five-Year Commitment Breakdown
Gifts may be paid in full, or the Pirate Club will work with donors to create up to a five-year payment schedule. Members may contribute monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually.
Member Benefits
The Purple & Gold Society Benefits Chart exclusively serves Society members. Gifts paid in full receive immediate benefits for a five-year period. Gifts paid over five years receive benefits as long as payments are up to date.
Investment Breakdown by Giving Level
Donors may choose to join the Purple & Gold Society at any point during the calendar year. Priority points will be awarded for all gifts unless otherwise specified by the donor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Society different than the IMPACT Fund?
Gifts to the Purple & Gold Society are contributions above and beyond IMPACT Fund gifts in support of student-athlete programs and initiatives. The IMPACT Fund will continue to serve as the priority seating and parking program for the Pirate Club.
Why create this Society?
The Purple & Gold Society formalizes a process already in place within the Pirate Club for giving philanthropically to support ECU student-athletes.
Does a gift fulfill my IMPACT Fund or seating donation?
No. Gifts to the Purple & Gold Society are independent of existing IMPACT Fund donation requirements for seating and parking benefits.
How do I contribute toward my pledge?
Gifts may be paid in full, or the Pirate Club will work with donors to create up to a five-year payment schedule. Members may contribute monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually.
Can I make a gift through a donor-advised fund, stock gift or matching gift?
Yes. The Pirate Club welcomes gifts from donor-advised funds, stock gifts and matching gifts for the Purple & Gold Society. Stock gifts will receive an acknowledgement letter at the time of the gift.
What about tax deductibility?
All gifts will be subject to a tax deduction less the fair market value of any benefits provided to the donor. The Pirate Club does not provide tax or legal advice and encourages donors to contact their personal tax advisors.
How long is my membership valid?
Purple & Gold Society membership is awarded for five years.
When will I receive my benefits?
Benefits will be received as long as payments are up to date. Double priority points are immediately awarded for all paid dollars. Tangible gift items will be distributed in August each calendar year.
Is the Purple & Gold Society Right for Me?
Every donor’s story is different. The Pirate Club Development team is here to help align your support with your interests, passions and the current needs of ECU Athletics.
TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR Giving
Donors who want season tickets and tax-deductible support may choose to meet IMPACT Fund requirements for seating and also support the Purple & Gold Society or Athletics Excellence Fund for recruitment and retention efforts.
Donor-Advised Funds
A donor-advised fund may not be used toward the IMPACT Fund, but it may be used to contribute to the Athletics Excellence Fund or Purple & Gold Society.
Unable to Commit $5,000 Annually?
In addition to purchasing season tickets, donors may contribute to the Athletics Excellence Fund. Gifts of any amount can directly benefit ECU student-athletes.
Looking for Another Way to Support ECU Athletics?
Not every gift begins with a $5,000 annual commitment. The Athletics Excellence Fund provides an opportunity for every Pirate to strengthen ECU Athletics through gifts of any amount.
Learn About the Athletics Excellence Fund
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you are exploring leadership philanthropy for the first time or ready to join the Purple & Gold Society, our team would love to visit with you.
Contact Us Today
