What is a Recreational Sports endowed scholarship?

Over 1,000 students are employed each year by the Division of Recreational Sports (formerly known simply as the Men’s and Women’s Intramural Department), which offers approximately 40 part-time positions ranging from facility management to outdoor guides. Student employees manage the daily operations of the facilities, officiate intramural contests, teach group exercise classes and provide exceptional customer service. While many students pursue employment with RecSports for its convenience and flexibility, they soon realize that the Division provides more than a student-friendly and flexible work environment. These jobs provide students with the potential to manage their peers and work on a team-centered staff. Students also receive valuable employment training and experience in time-management, supervision, communication, and conflict resolution. As RecSports employees, students also actively serve the community, work collaboratively with their peers and demonstrate responsibility.

Why endowments matter at Recreational Sports

Endowments at RecSports are a sound investment in a better future. Endowments are special because they are permanent. Each gift is invested – never spent – and every year the proceeds are used to support various aspects of the program. Funds distributed from this endowment enable the division to provide scholarships to the outstanding students that operate and manage the program that was so influential in our overall collegiate experience. With its establishment, the Mark L. Hart, Jr. Scholarship will forever link Mark to excellence at the University.

The endowment funds are professionally invested and managed by the University of Texas Investment Management Company (UTIMCO).

Can I make a pledge of support?

Yes; gift pledges to RecSports can be paid in monthly, quarterly or even annual installments (up to 3) and involve an initial payment. You can pledge online or contact Chris Maguire in the RecSports development office to set up a pledge payment plan.

Can I make a gift in honor or memory of someone?

Absolutely. Many donors contribute funds to honor a loved one or special individual. If you would like to make your gift in honor or memory of another person — or if you wish to give in another's name – just let us know the details. If a gift is made in memory of someone who has passed away, RecSports will notify their family of any gifts made in tribute. If a gift is made in honor of someone’s life or career, they will be notified of any gifts unless the donor requests anonymity. The RecSports staff is happy to carry out your wishes.

How can I afford to help Recreational Sports?

The size of the gift you make is entirely up to you. Donations of all sizes are vital and gratefully accepted. Every dollar we receive has the potential for exponential growth, since it helps RecSports improve its most valuable resources. Some donors find they can achieve their charitable goals through our many planned giving avenues, such as life insurance, property, real estate and securities, that don't require a large sum of cash-on-hand. Pledges may also help achieve your goals as a donor. Bear in mind that you may be able to double or even triple your gift by taking advantage of your employer's matching gift for higher education program.

What forms of payment may be used? How should I make out my check?

Your contribution to the endowment is welcomed and planned giving opportunities are available. If your employer offers a charitable matching gift program, you can increase the size of your gift. Checks should be made payable to The University of Texas at Austin, should indicate the Hart Scholarship in the memo section and be mailed to:

Division of Recreational Sports
Attn: Development Coordinator
1 University Station D7500
Austin, Texas 78712-0395

Gifts may also be made through UT Online Giving.

Are all gifts tax-deductible?

The University is considered a charitable organization for the purposes of tax deductibility under Section 170 of the IRS code. As soon as RecSports receives your gift, we place it in the designated fund. At the same time, the gift processing staff automatically generates a gift receipt to be mailed to you for tax preparations.

Do gifts to Recreational Sports count towards University-wide donor recognition totals and society membership?

Absolutely. Gifts to RecSports count towards the University's prestigious giving societies such as the Littlefield Society and Chancellor's Council. Planned gifts to RecSports also are awarded with membership into Texas Leadership Society. All gifts are recorded as contributions the University’s Campaign for Texas, launched in October 2008.