Elevating Oklahoma State University: A Comprehensive Look at the OSU Foundation

The Oklahoma State University (OSU) Foundation stands as the private fundraising arm of OSU, playing a pivotal role in uniting donor passions with university priorities. Officially designated by the OSU Board of Regents, the Foundation's mission is to elevate the impact of Oklahoma State University by strategically managing donor dollars to enhance educational opportunities for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends.

The Mission and Vision

The OSU Foundation's core mission is to connect donor interests with the strategic objectives of the university, ultimately enhancing the overall impact of Oklahoma State University. By effectively managing donor contributions, the Foundation strives to provide advanced educational opportunities to the entire OSU community, from students to alumni.

The Foundation is dedicated to maintaining public confidence and private trust. In the interest of transparency, the OSU Foundation provides information about its organization.

Leadership and Governance

At the helm of the OSU Foundation is President Blaire Atkinson, appointed in May 2020. With a staff of nearly 200 professionals, Atkinson directs operations under policies established by the Board of Trustees. Blaire shows a deep passion and dedication for both OSU and improving Oklahoma through quality education. "The Foundation employs incredibly talented people, all passionately committed to supporting quality education in the next generation. I fully believe in the mission of our land-grant university to improve the lives of people in Oklahoma and the world through teaching, research and outreach.

The Board of Trustees and Governors

The Board of Trustees comprises volunteers selected for their professional expertise and dedication to OSU. These trustees are elected to four-year terms from the Board of Governors, a group of alumni and friends who provide significant financial backing and volunteer support to OSU and the Foundation. Governors are elected for six-year terms.

Historical Overview

The OSU Foundation, originally named the OSU Development Foundation until 1979, has been instrumental in supporting the university's fundraising efforts for over half a century. Starting with a single development officer in 1961, the Foundation has grown into one of the top higher-education fundraising organizations in the Big 12 Conference.

Key Milestones

1963: Raised $106,622.
1967: All-time giving totals reached $1 million.
1976: Gifts in a single year surpassed $2 million for the first time.
1981: Floyd M. "Pete" and Helen L. "Pat" Bartlett of Tulsa provided the first $1 million gift.
1982: T. Boone Pickens made his first $1 million gift, followed by three gifts of at least $100 million each.
1994: Launched the first comprehensive campaign, "Bringing Dreams to Life," which surpassed its initial goal of $125 million, reaching over $260 million by June 2000.
2007: Launched "Branding Success: The Campaign for Oklahoma State University," which exceeded its $1 billion goal, raising $1.2 billion by December 2014.

Fundraising Campaigns and Initiatives

The OSU Foundation has a rich history of successful fundraising campaigns, each designed to elevate the university's capabilities and impact.

Bringing Dreams to Life

Launched in June 1994, this campaign aimed to raise $125 million but ultimately surpassed expectations, amassing over $260 million by its conclusion in June 2000. The funds were directed towards various initiatives, enhancing student support, faculty development, and program enhancements.

Branding Success: The Campaign for Oklahoma State University

In December 2007, the Foundation launched an ambitious campaign with a goal of $1 billion. Surpassing this target nearly 15 months ahead of schedule, the campaign concluded in December 2014 with $1.2 billion raised. These funds supported initiatives in student support, endowed professorships and chairs, facility and program support.

The Code Calls

Currently, the OSU Foundation is engaged in "The Code Calls," the university's largest fundraising campaign to date. With a goal of $2 billion by the summer of 2030, this campaign seeks to transform the lives of students. Become a #GiveOrange 2026 digital ambassador and help your Orange Passion shine during 1,890 minutes of giving. #TheCodeCalls. Will you answer? We’re looking back on a defining moment for Oklahoma State University, the public launch of #TheCodeCalls, OSU’s historic $2 billion comprehensive campaign.

Financial Management and Transparency

The OSU Foundation operates as a private, non-profit organization under IRS 501(c)(3) status. It is separate from Oklahoma State University and not supported by state funds. As a private corporation, the Foundation is uniquely qualified to address the specific needs and concerns of donors. An annual financial audit is conducted by a qualified accounting firm.

Endowment Funds

The Foundation manages endowment funds, where gifts are invested to grow over time and provide ongoing support for specific needs such as scholarships, faculty development, or program expenses. These funds are strategically invested in the Foundation’s Pooled Investment Fund to preserve the long-term purchasing power of the endowments, while prudently managing risk. The spending policy amount is reviewed regularly by the Investment Committee and any changes must be approved by the OSU Foundation Board of Trustees.

Donor Engagement and Recognition

The OSU Foundation values its donors and offers various avenues for engagement and recognition.

Giving Opportunities

The Foundation provides various giving opportunities, allowing donors to support their orange passion by designating their gift as they wish. This can include supporting a specific OSU program, college, or department.

Gift-Matching

Many companies offer employees a gift-matching benefit that multiplies their donations to higher education. The Foundation encourages donors to check with their human resources office to learn more about gift-matching opportunities.

Recognition

The Foundation enjoys publicizing gifts to recognize generosity. This could include news releases, articles in newspapers, feature stories in Foundation or OSU publications, or other appropriate recognition. However, the Foundation respects donors' desires for anonymity.

Honoring Loved Ones

Many donors give to honor a loved one or special individual. The Foundation ensures that such gifts are appropriately acknowledged.

Impact Stories

The OSU Foundation has facilitated numerous impactful gifts that have significantly enhanced Oklahoma State University.

The Wise Endowed Chair of Veterinary Ophthalmology

Dr. James B. Wise and his wife, Elizabeth Wise, established the James and Elizabeth Wise Endowed Chair of Veterinary Ophthalmology within the College of Veterinary Medicine. This gift advances OSU’s land-grant mission and ensures exceptional eye care for animals across the state.

The Center for Advanced Global Leadership & Engagement (CAGLE)

Roger and Cindy Cagle established the Center for Advanced Global Leadership & Engagement (CAGLE) at the Spears School of Business, which serves as a hub for international initiatives, including study abroad programs.

Support for Students

The General Scholarship Fund allows for meaningful unrestricted support for students attending Oklahoma State University. The Human Performance and Nutrition Research Institute (HPNRI) at Oklahoma State University conducts interdisciplinary research to optimize human health and performance. It collaborates with industry partners to translate scientific discoveries into practical applications that enhance athletic performance and public health. The Foundation firmly believes that financial obstacles should not hinder anyone from obtaining a top-notch education.

Alumni and Community Engagement

The OSU Foundation works closely with alumni and the community to foster a culture of philanthropy and support for Oklahoma State University.

OSU Alumni Association

The Alumni Association represents more than 200,000 alumni living throughout the world and 100 alumni chapters, watch clubs, and societies.

Women for OSU

The annual Women for OSU Symposium honors members of the Oklahoma State University family who display leadership in philanthropy, awards scholarships to outstanding #okstate students, and recognizes the Partnering to Impact grant recipients.

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