The Wayne State University Foundation was established by the university's Board of Governors in 1999 in response to President Irvin D. Reid's challenge to "to develop a centralized means of encouraging and managing financial support by private sources." It is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation that manages fiscal and human resources specifically for the benefit of Wayne State University.
The foundation is governed by a board of directors made up of business and community leaders, and functions under the leadership of a chairman chosen from among these individuals and a president who also holds the title of Vice President for Development and Alumni Affairs.
The foundation exists solely to serve Wayne State University. Its primary function is to promote advocacy and generate financial support for the university's programs and activities in teaching, research and community service.
Though independent of the university, the foundation participates as a partner with units of the institution in realizing Wayne State's overall advancement objectives.
The foundation receives, invests and administers private funds on behalf of the academic mission, research initiatives and other priorities of Wayne State University. Establishing a nonprofit corporation within a vibrant and successful public institution has enabled Wayne State University to develop a core of expertise and experience that can be strategically focused on opportunities in the private sector.
Funds raised through the foundation support undergraduate and graduate student scholarships, endow faculty chairs and professorships, provide support for academic and scientific programs and investigations, and enhance the campus's physical infrastructure.
Private gifts supply the critical margin that enables Wayne State both to excel in its educational mission and to enhance its public service. The generous contributions of individuals, corporations and foundations are essential to our ability to educate, discover and serve.
For more information, please call Neco Walker, (313) 577-2275.