Alumnus Supports University with Donor-Advised Fund

Engineer and businessman Jiangtao (JT) Wang ’00 MBA, MEM commits to giving back through Northwestern Compass Funds

Jiangtao (JT) Wang ’00 MBA, MEM began his journey to Northwestern University from southeast China. After earning a degree in chemical engineering from Zhejiang University, Wang spent his early career at a specialty chemical company and became interested in the business side of the operation. He began exploring programs that would provide a rigorous business education while building on his strong engineering background. His search led him to a “life-changing” experience at the Kellogg School of Management.

In 1998, Wang traveled from China with his wife, Xiaoyi (Alicia) Ma, to begin the master of manufacturing management dual-degree program at Northwestern, which enabled him to simultaneously earn an MBA from Kellogg and a master of science from the McCormick School of Engineering.

“My experience at Kellogg was eye-opening,” Wang says. “I met students from all over the country and world who represented a wide range of industry experiences, from banking to engineering to early internet ventures.” Wang adds that he enjoyed the collaborative nature of the program and fondly recalls the many hours he spent in the Donald P. Jacobs Center atrium, enjoying pizza with his classmates while working on group projects and discussing plans for the future.

‘Doing Better by Doing Good’

Years later, after building a successful investment business, Wang recognized the importance of giving back to support current and future students. “In today’s business world, we need to do better by doing good,” he says. “I want to be part of making the University—and the world—better for everyone.”

After exploring their options, Wang and his wife decided to create a donor-advised fund through the Northwestern Compass Funds program. The program allows donors to set up a charitable giving account and then use it to distribute funds to the University and other nonprofit organizations over time. Donors receive an income tax deduction in the year(s) they establish or add to the fund.

Unrestricted Support

Wang found the Compass Funds program attractive for several reasons, including its flexibility, ease of setup, and administration. “During this busy stage of my personal and professional life, I appreciate how easily I can make charitable gifts and keep track of my giving through the fund,” he says. Wang plans to use his fund to provide unrestricted support to Northwestern, allowing University leaders to allocate resources to areas with the greatest needs.

Wang has enjoyed introducing his graduate school alma mater to his children, Sophia (14) and Edward (11). Every summer, the family travels to Evanston from their home in Florida so the kids can attend classes at Northwestern’s Center for Talent Development. “The University is a wonderful place for curious, knowledge-hungry young people to learn,” Wang says. “I hope that my support makes it possible for others to benefit from all Northwestern has to offer.”

Flexible, Easy Giving

Contact Northwestern Gift Planning at 800-826-6709 or giftplanning@northwestern.edu to learn how a donor-advised fund can streamline your generosity.