Steve,
 
I agree that it seems a bit dishonest to raise more money for a project than
the project costs, although I would like to face this dilemma more often than
I do.  If, on the other hand, you create a statement with the help of your
legal office that makes clear that the support provided buys recognition on
the wall (and is not directly related to project costs), you are not being
dishonest at all.  Both parties could sign, and you should be able to sleep
well at night.  You could individualize the agreements to reflect donor
wishes, and to control their use of your museum's name.
 
I hope this provides a starting point, at least.
 
Cheers,
 
Tony
 
 
Anthony Hirschel               **  e-mail:   [log in to unmask]
Director                       **  tel.      804-924-3592
Bayly Art Museum               **  fax:      804-924-6321
Rugby Road                     **
Charlottesville, VA 22903-2427 **