Commemorative Giving Program

Donate a Tree or Bench

McMaster’s grounds offer an oasis of natural and planned areas for relaxing, reading, and enjoying conversations. Planting a sapling or placing a new bench on campus to honour someone who has touched your life is wonderful way to improve and preserve our beautiful surroundings.

Plant a tree and watch McMaster grow: We work closely with interested parties and the Grounds Department to select an appropriate campus location and tree species for new tree plantings. Your tree is marked with a handsome 10x12 inch bronze cast plaque. The tree will be guaranteed for three years.  The cost to plant a new tree is $2500.

Plaque an existing tree: Depending on the time of year and availability of trees, our grounds department will identify options from which donors may choose.  Every effort is made to ensure that the location meets the needs of the donors.  Your tree is marked with a 3x5 inch aluminum cast plaque. There is no lifetime guarantee on this Commemorative option. The cost to plaque an existing tree on campus is $1000.

Benches: As with Commemorative tree plantings, we work closely with the donor and the Grounds Department to determine a suitable location for new benches. A commemorative plaque accompanies your bench. The cost to install a new commemorative bench on campus is $3500.

Commemorative Book plating: This unique way to remember a loved one or pay tribute on a special occasion is offered through McMaster's Library Services. Your donation of $150 will fund the purchase of a new book on a topic in the academic discipline of your choice. The honouree will receive a beautiful commemorative bookplate in a presentation folder, and a bookplate will also be placed inside the purchased book. For more information on this option, please call: (905) 525-9140, ext. 24865 or visit us on the web.

In Memory/In Tribute Giving

Remember or honour a colleague, friend, or loved-one with an In Memory or In Tribute gift.

When you donate In Memory, McMaster will inform the family of your contribution in their loved-one's name. The In Tribute program allows you to recognize a special occasion, such as a birthday, promotion, anniversary, or retirement.

Individuals will be sent a card informing them that a gift to McMaster University has been made in their honour.