Frequently Asked Questions

For additional questions, please email us at info@sowf.org.

​Is the Society of Winterthur Fellows financed and/or managed by Winterthur Museum?

No. The Society is an independent organization with its own certificate of  incorporation, mission, and bylaws. We are governed by an all-volunteer board, comprising a roughly equal number of alumni of both graduate programs. As most alumni organizations, one of our key missions is to give back to our alma mater, which is Winterthur Museum and the University of Delaware.
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Who governs the Society?

The Society is governed by an all-volunteer board of directors, all of whom are alumni of Winterthur’s culture or conservation graduate programs.  Board members serve three-year terms with a limit of two terms (six years).
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Is the Society of Winterthur Fellows a non-profit organization?

Yes. We are a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization, category 501(c)(3) incorporated in the State of Delaware.
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Is my membership payment to the Society tax deductible?

Annual membership dues are entirely tax deductible. If you are not currently a member, join today! Additional contributions are also 100 percent tax deductible. Upon paying your dues or making a donation online, you will receive an email confirmation of your gift. Those who pay by check will receive their receipts once the payment has been processed.
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Are donations to the Society above the membership dues tax deductible?

Yes. Any donation to the Society of Winterthur Fellows is fully tax-deductible, and there are many options. You can make a donation to the Society to help us in all our philanthropic endeavors, or directly give to: support our efforts toward DEAI, current fellows, alumni events and programs, or the Alumni Grant Program. In addition, we offer special distinction to those donations made in honor or memory of someone, or for generous gifts of  $1,000 or more (the Charles F. Hummel Circle). Whether large or small, your gift is immensely appreciated. Make a donation today!
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Does the Society receive financial support from Winterthur Museum?

No. The Society relies on membership dues and donations for all its revenue. A key component of the Society's mission is to give back to Winterthur/University of Delaware in support of the current culture and conservation programs and the Academic Programs (formerly Advanced Studies) Department. A donation to the Society is a great way to say thank you to Winterthur and UD for your graduate school education.
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What are the benefits of a Society of Winterthur Fellows Membership?

Paying SOWF members receive:
  • Access to the searchable, online alumni directory
  • Invitation to special events and programs
  • Eligibility to apply for alumni grants to support research and continuing education
  • Membership to Winterthur Museum for those who make an additional $5 donation for this feature that includes a 10% discount in the Winterthur Pavilion Café and preferred pricing at the Delaware Antiques Show
  • Inclusion in the annual Honor Roll of Donors for those who give above the general membership level
  • The pride and satisfaction of giving back to Winterthur in a manner that directly benefits alumni, current fellows, and the Academic Programs (formerly Advanced Studies) Department 
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Why is the Society's mail directed to Winterthur's address?

Winterthur Museum kindly allows us use their mailing address, as we do not have office, phone numbers, or paid staff. We do have email addresses that go directly to Society volunteers who are in charge of various programs and projects. Consult the Contact page for detailed Society contact information. 
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How do I gain access to the Society of Winterthur Fellows directory?

The searchable Alumni Directory is fully accessible online to all dues-paying members of the Society. 
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How can I stay up-to-date with Society activities?

Many of our events and activities will be posted on the Events page of this web site. Additionally, the Society uses MailChimp for email announcements. If you are not receiving our email notices, contact us at directory@sowf.org. Be sure to optimize your email settings so that you are receiving all our announcements.
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Can I share announcements with or pose questions to fellow alumni? 

Yes! There are several ways. First, you can send direct messages to individuals through the Alumni Directory. Second, you can join our Listserv and post discussion topics on this user-driven community forum. Finally, Facebook users can be sure to join the SOWF Facebook group as an additional way to stay connected. And of course, don't forget about SOWF events, which are excellent networking opportunities. 

I would like to get involved with the Society. How can I do this?

There are many programs and projects for which we need help. You can Get Involved by signing up to join our mentorship program, or by joining a Society of Winterthur Fellows committee. Alternately, you can sign up on your Profile page. There are also positions on the board that need filling each year. For opportunities, If you are interested in serving in this capacity, please contact us at info@sowf.org.