New Publication

Memoranda of Understanding Between Public Institutions and Affiliated Foundations

A well-structured memorandum of understanding (MOU) documents key legal and operational aspects of an institution-foundation partnership. It serves important legal functions by specifying roles and responsibilities, appropriate use of state resources, and policies and practices supporting good stewardship, transparency, and alignment. An inclusive MOU process can help to establish and memorialize a shared understanding of the relationship and the role of the foundation as a strategic partner. This book provides new guidance for two-year and four-year institutions on the process of developing or revising an MOU and includes two illustrative MOUs intended to guide colleges and universities with varying degrees of complexity in their institution-foundation partnerships.