Elizabeth de Clare Fellows

Elizabeth de Clare Fellows are elected by the Governing Body on the recommendation of the Master to recognise individuals who, through their commitment to the College and exceptional benefaction, contribute to the present and future life of the College. Elizabeth de Clare Fellows are officially recognised as senior members of the College. They are listed, together with the Fellows and Honorary Fellows, in the special issue of the University Reporter published at the start of each academic year. As full members of the Senior Combination Room, Elizabeth de Clare Fellows may dine in College seven times a week and attend College Feasts.

Mellon Circle (£500,000+)

The Mellon Circle recognises donors who have given or pledged to give £500,000 (including Gift Aid) or more to the College during their lifetime (exclusive of legacy intentions). Members of the Mellon Circle are invited with a guest to attend a bespoke thank-you event each year. They also enjoy all the privileges of the levels below.

Master's Circle (£100,000+)

Membership of the Master's Circle is conferred on donors who have made a gift or a pledge of £100,000 (including Gift Aid) in the five previous years, payable within that period. Members are invited with a guest to an annual dinner hosted by the Master. They also enjoy all the privileges of the levels below.

The 1326 Society (£30,000+)

Recalling the year of the College’s foundation, the 1326 Society recognises donors who have made a gift or pledge of £30,000 (including Gift Aid) or more in the three previous years, payable within that period. Members are invited with a guest to a special event each year. They also enjoy the privileges of Benefactors.

Benefactor (£15,000+) 

Benefactor status is conferred on donors who have made a gift or pledge of £15,000 (including Gift Aid) or more in the three previous years, payable within that period. Benefactors are invited with a guest to the annual Benefactors’ Garden Party, held in College.

The Samuel Blythe Society (Legators)

The Samuel Blythe Society is named after the 17th century Master of Clare whose generous bequest to the College guaranteed its continuing success and prosperity. Membership of the Samuel Blythe Society is automatic to those who notify us of their intention to remember Clare in their Will. Members are invited with a guest to an annual luncheon, which is held on the second Saturday in May, and are also presented with an exclusive lapel-pin bearing the Clare coat of arms.