
Membership Opportunities
Chautauqua Institution represents many things to many people. It is a venue for diverse performances, a retreat for reflection, a vibrant outlet for the arts, a hub of education, an inventive forum for debate, and much more …
Above all, it is a community! Although the unique pieces which together make up this community are constantly evolving, its constancy is rooted in the interconnectedness of its members and a kindred belief in what brings us together. On the shores of Chautauqua Lake, the Institution comes alive each summer. Over the course of nine weeks more than 100,000 visitors become members of this community, carrying the spirit of Chautauqua with them when they leave.
The unique sense of community at Chautauqua can seem magical, but it is only with the very intentional and generous encouragement of community members like you that it flourishes. Active engagement, particularly through volunteerism and philanthropy, reinforces the easily identified pillars of Chautauqua’s mission — the arts, education, religion and recreation — and the overarching spirit of community which cannot be seen but, rather, felt.

Bestor Society
The Bestor Society recognizes those whose annual leadership gifts to the Chautauqua Fund of $5,000 or more serve to amplify Chautauqua’s work for greater impact in shaping a better tomorrow.

1874 Society
The 1874 Society recognizes those whose annual leadership gifts to the Chautauqua Fund in the amount of $1,874–$4,999 help sustain the delivery of the entire Chautauqua experience and inspire others to acts of similar generosity.

Daugherty Society
By making a planned gift to Chautauqua Foundation, Inc., you are entitled to membership in the Eleanor B. Daugherty Society, a group of Chautauquans who have included Chautauqua Foundation in their will or other estate plans.

Bell Tower Society
The Bell Tower Society has been established to recognize those who make a monthly recurring gift to the Chautauqua Fund, providing consistent and sustainable support.

NOW Generation
The NOW Generation is comprised of young adults (ages 21–40) who find value and meaning in promoting the Chautauqua experience and devote their time, energy and resources to ensuring its longevity and continued relevance.

Lewis Miller Circle
The Lewis Miller Circle recognizes members of the NOW Generation whose annual leadership gifts to the Chautauqua Fund of $250 or more help sustain the delivery of the entire Chautauqua experience, and inspire others to join them in similar acts of generosity.

Foundation Membership
Those who are eligible for membership of the Chautauqua Foundation corporation have served or currently serve on the Foundation’s Board of Directors or the Institution’s Board of Trustees, and anyone who has made gifts to the Foundation that in the aggregate exceed $1,000.