Friends of the Gallagher Bluedorn Level Adjustment

Effective June 1, 2026

The Friends of the Gallagher Bluedorn exists to support the performing arts and ensure accessibility for all in our community. Membership contributions directly fund programming, educational outreach, and initiatives that make the arts available to everyone. With rising operational costs, artist fees, and program expenses, the support of Friends is now more critical than ever. 

To continue delivering high-quality performances and expanding access, membership levels are being adjusted to reflect rising costs and to support the evolving needs of the Gallagher Bluedorn. 

These changes will go into effect June 1, 2026. You will receive additional communications leading up to that date, as well as reminders prior to your renewal period. We understand that any increase requires consideration. We encourage you to:

-Choose a giving level that feels comfortable for you 

-Split your annual gift into 12 monthly automatic recurring payments

Every gift—at every level—makes a difference and is deeply valued. Together, we continue to provide vital support to the Gallagher Bluedorn and the important role it plays in our community. 

 

Please reach out to Bethany Brooks, Director of Development with any additional questions.

319-273-3672 or bethany.brooks@uni.edu

Level Adjustment FAQ

Why are membership levels increasing?

The Friends of the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center exists to support the Gallagher Bluedorn and ensure accessibility for all in our community. Operational costs, artist fees, and program expenses have risen significantly and the Gallagher Bluedorn needs our support now more than ever.

Will membership benefits change?

At this time, benefits remain largely the same. The focus of this adjustment is to preserve and strengthen the impact of Friends support, rather than restructure benefits.

When was the last time membership levels increased?

Membership levels have not increased in over 6 years.

When will the new levels take effect?

Beginning on June 1, 2026, renewals and new memberships will be at the new levels. Our renewals occur on a rolling basis throughout the year, so the increase would happen at your renewal period. Ex: If your membership renews in October, you will receive notification in September to review the adjusted levels and renew at the level of your choosing.

What if I just renewed within the past few months?

Then you’re all set until next year! At that point, you’ll receive renewal reminders and the opportunity to review the new levels and choose one that works for you.

Are you still offering a rolling membership structure?

Yes, rolling membership is still an option! You can join/renew at any time in the year and your membership runs for one year from that date.

Am I able to set an automatically recurring annual renewal?

Due to changes within the UNI Foundation and a new CRM system, we can no longer offer an automatic renewal. You will need to renew your Friends membership every year, regardless on whether it is a one-time or a recurring gift.

What if I’m not sure about increasing my membership?

We understand that any increase requires consideration. We encourage you to:

  • Choose a giving level that feels comfortable for you
  • Split your annual gift into 12 monthly automatic recurring payments

Every gift—at every level—makes a difference and is deeply valued. Thank you for your continued commitment to the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center!

Recurring Giving Information

In addition to the level adjustments, we are making some changes to our recurring gift processes. The UNI Foundation is implementing a new CRM system, and we are no longer able to offer automatic yearly renewals. We also will not be able to offer an ‘indefinite’ option for monthly giving. So what does this mean for you?

1. Regardless of when in the year your Friends renewal occurs, in the next few weeks you will be receiving a phone call from either a Friends Board member or GBPAC staff to help explain the changes and discuss your membership.
2. When your renewal period is approaching, you will receive postcards and emails alerting you that your renewal is coming up and asking you to renew your membership.
3. At that time, you will need to go online to complete the online giving form and reset your recurring gift. We are still offering a monthly recurring gift, but it will only pull for 12 months. You will need to renew your Friends membership every year, regardless on whether it is a one-time or a recurring gift.

Recurring Giving FAQ

What if my gift pulls every year automatically?

We will no longer offer the option to pull annual gifts automatically. You will need to go online every year during your renewal period to renew your annual Friends gift.

Can I still split my Friends membership into monthly payments?

Yes! You can set your membership to be split into 12 equal payments. However, it will only pull for those 12 months, not indefinitely. You will need to go online every year during your renewal period to set up your 12 recurring monthly payments.

What if my Friends membership is pulled from my bank account via ACH?

Each year, you will need to alert the UNI Foundation that you would like to set up your annual Friends membership via ACH. We will have the bank account info on file but just need confirmation from you that you would like to renew for the following year.

How does the level increase work with my recurring monthly gift?

A month before your renewal date, you should receive postcards and emails alerting you that your renewal is coming up. You can then look at the new levels and see which one works best for you. You will not be asked to increase until your renewal period.