Our Recognition Societies

A group of donors meet at a Chancellor's Circle event

The University of Pittsburgh is pleased to acknowledge alumni and friends who provide generous financial support to help Pitt maintain and build on its strong foundation through the recognition societies listed below:

Chancellor's Circle logo

Chancellor's Circle

The Chancellor's Circle recognizes leadership annual giving for alumni and friends who have given a total of $1,000 or more in a fiscal year (July 1 through June 30) to the University of Pittsburgh. Their philanthropy helps to further the impact of academic programs, important research, advance human understanding, and increase innovation and economic growth regionally and around the world.

Join the Chancellor's Circle

Cathedral of Learning society logo

Cathedral of Learning Society

The Cathedral of Learning is the most widely recognized symbol of the University of Pittsburgh, representing the University's highest aspirations and serving as an enduring monument to the spirit of philanthropy. Established in 1999, the Cathedral of Learning Society pays tribute to those individuals who have given $1 million or more over their lifetime to the University of Pittsburgh and whose exceptional leadership support inspires others to recognize the transforming power of knowledge. Induction into the Cathedral of Learning Society is among the highest honors the University bestows.


Cathedral of Learning society logo

Brackenridge Circle

The Brackenridge Circle, established in 2010, pays special tribute to those remarkable individuals who have given planned gifts of $1 million or more over their lifetime toward the continued progress and success of the University of Pittsburgh. The Brackenridge Circle was named for Pitt founder Hugh Henry Brackenridge, who envisioned a great seat of learning west of the Alleghenies and secured Commonwealth financial support for the establishment of the Pittsburgh Academy, the progenitor of today’s University of Pittsburgh.


1787 Society logo

The 1787 Society

The 1787 Society was founded to recognize those individuals who have made a commitment to Pitt through planned or deferred gifts, regardless of size, through a bequest, annuity, trust, life insurance policy, or other planned or deferred gift opportunity. These generous individuals make legacy gifts ensuring the future of University of Pittsburgh students, staff, faculty and researchers.


Babcock Society logo

Babcock Society

The Babcock Society honors our loyal donors who have given a total of $1,000 or more each fiscal year (July 1 through June 30) for a total of five or more years. These contributions are essential in providing support for students, advancing academic programs, and making meaningful contributions to our home region.