Trusteeship Articles By Topic: Fundraising

As public institutions across the country face increasing cuts in state appropriations per student, many are turning to institutionally related foundations for support. The fund-raising work of foundation boards is becoming more vital than ever.

Public universities are likely to face a new round of financial pressures in coming months stemming from the troubled national economy, slowing state tax revenues, and public concern about rising tuition. This development is, however, just the latest chapter in a shift in financing away from state support that began decades ago. This shift not only requires more nimble and entrepreneurial leadership by administrators but also calls for broader expertise among the trustees and regents responsible for effective oversight of the more financially complex institutions that have emerged as public universities’ sources of revenue have diversified.

Members of the foundation board can provide fundraising leadership through the example of their own giving and through active participation in the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of other donors.

With the United States economy on a rollercoaster ride this year and words like "meltdown," "bailout," and "crisis" commonly used in recent weeks in connection with the financial markets, college and university administrators might find themselves becoming increasingly anxious about their fundraising plans. But they needn't be, according to several experts in the fundraising field.