Statement on Date Auctions
Summary
Treating others with dignity and respect is one of the core values integral to the William & Mary experience. As such, the Office of Student Leadership Development, has developed a statement regarding fundraising activities that focus on the “auctioning” of individuals.
Full Description
Treating others with dignity and respect is one of the core values integral to the William & Mary experience. As such, the Office of Student Leadership Development, as a unit within the Division of Student Affairs, has developed this statement regarding fundraising activities that focus on the “auctioning” of individuals.
This statement intends to address specific concerns regarding activity that involves the “auctioning” of individuals (commonly referred to as: member auctions, date auctions or pledge/new member auctions, etc.) For the purposes of this statement, any event auctioning individuals will be referred to as a “member auction.” As you make decisions regarding your organizations fundraising activities and practices, please be aware of the concerns outlined in the document.
Member auctions as fundraisers are usually sponsored by organizations with good intentions and to raise funds for good causes. However, the concerns listed in the document expose the potential for persons to be physically and/or emotionally harmed, therefore auctions may be an ill-conceived manner to raise money.
As an alternative, we suggest auctioning items (tickets, items, etc.) rather than individuals. Please consider selecting a positive alternative to auctions of individuals for raising your funds.We are happy to meet with organizations to discuss alternative ideas for fundraisers.
Questions about this statement can be sent to leadership@wm.edu.
