Oklahoma State University Foundation
Background
The Oklahoma State University Foundation (OSU Foundation) serves as the primary private fundraising organization for Oklahoma State University (OSU). Its mission is to align donor passions with university priorities, thereby enhancing OSU's impact. Established to support the university's educational, research, and community service initiatives, the Foundation plays a pivotal role in advancing OSU's land-grant mission.
Key Strategic Focus
The OSU Foundation concentrates on:
- Fundraising Excellence: Engaging alumni, corporations, and philanthropists to secure financial support for OSU's programs and initiatives.
- Donor Relations: Building and maintaining strong relationships with donors to ensure sustained support.
- Asset Management: Prudent management of endowed funds to provide long-term financial stability for the university.
- Program Support: Allocating resources to scholarships, faculty endowments, infrastructure projects, and research endeavors.
Financials and Funding
In the fiscal year ending June 2023, the OSU Foundation reported:
- Total Revenue: $281.47 million
- Total Expenses: $138.66 million
- Net Assets: $1.44 billion
Key revenue sources included:
- Contributions: $230.71 million (82% of total revenue)
- Investment Income: $18.13 million (6.4%)
- Sales of Assets: $23.39 million (8.3%)
The Foundation's financial health is underscored by a liabilities-to-assets ratio of 4.43%, indicating strong solvency.
Technological Platform and Innovation
In 2019, the OSU Foundation established the Multilateral Endowment Management Company (MEMCO), a nonprofit investment management firm. MEMCO provides investment advisory services to the Foundation and affiliated nonprofits, aiming to:
- Enhance Investment Returns: Achieving over $100 million in outperformance through active management since 2012.
- Achieve Economies of Scale: Negotiating better fees and terms with investment managers.
- Ensure Governance Transparency: Offering supported organizations representation on MEMCO's governing body.
Leadership Team
- Blaire Atkinson: President since May 2020, leading a team dedicated to advancing OSU's mission.
- Ryan Harms: Chief Investment Officer, overseeing the Foundation's investment strategies.
- Ashley Roche: Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel, managing operations and legal affairs.
- Scott Roberts: Vice President of Development, directing fundraising initiatives.
- Donna Koeppe: Vice President of Administration and Treasurer, handling administrative and financial operations.
Leadership Changes
In September 2024, the OSU Foundation Board of Governors elected three new trustees:
- Craig Boelte: CFO and Treasurer of Paycom Software Inc., OSU alumnus with extensive financial expertise.
- Melinda Stinnett: Managing Director of Stinnett & Associates, bringing experience in risk management and consulting.
- Carl Wiese: Retired executive from HP/Poly, with a background in global sales and technology.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
University foundations play a crucial role in higher education by securing private funding to support institutional missions. The effectiveness of these foundations is often measured by their fundraising capabilities, asset management, and donor engagement.
Competitor Analysis
- University of Oklahoma Foundation: Supports the University of Oklahoma, focusing on fundraising and asset management to advance the university's goals.
- Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation: Manages assets and fundraising efforts for Northwestern Oklahoma State University, with net assets of approximately $38.91 million as of 2021.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
The OSU Foundation collaborates with various entities to enhance its impact:
- Multilateral Endowment Management Company (MEMCO): Provides investment management services to the Foundation and affiliated nonprofits.
- The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts: Partnered with MEMCO to benefit from institutional-quality investment resources.
Operational Insights
The OSU Foundation's strategic initiatives include:
- Investment in Talent: Recruiting top professionals to manage fundraising and investment activities.
- Donor-Centric Approach: Tailoring engagement strategies to align with donor interests and priorities.
- Transparency and Accountability: Maintaining high standards in financial reporting and governance.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, the OSU Foundation aims to:
- Expand Donor Base: Engage a broader spectrum of donors, including younger alumni and corporate partners.
- Enhance Technological Capabilities: Leverage data analytics to optimize fundraising strategies.
- Strengthen Endowment Growth: Focus on increasing the endowment to provide sustainable support for OSU's long-term objectives.
