The KSU Foundation was established in 1944 as the official fundraising arm of Kansas State University. It is a separate, independent organization that is chartered by the state of Kansas as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational corporation. Gifts to the foundation are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Learn more about the foundation.
Just one-quarter of the university’s operating budget comes from the state. The remainder of the operating budget comes from three sources: Tuition, grants and contracts, and private philanthropic support given through the KSU Foundation. Private contributions are crucial to ensuring a strong future for K-State. Learn more about how private donations are utilized by K-State.
We are separate organizations but both exist to support the university in a specific way. The mission of the foundation is “To secure and prudently manage private gifts in support of Kansas State University.” The mission of the K-State Alumni Association is “Enhancing our Kansas State University family through lifelong involvement.” Learn more about the foundation.
Fundraising priorities are initiated by the president and provost of the university and deans or directors of university colleges and programs. The Development and Prioritization Committee, a subcommittee of the executive committee of the KSU Foundation, reviews and determines feasibility of priorities brought forward by the university. This committee then makes recommendations to the KSU Foundation Executive Committee for approval. If approved, the priority is added to the fundraising project tracking list.
A volunteer board of trustees governs the foundation. A 14-member executive committee elected from the membership of the board meets quarterly and is authorized to act on the trustees’ behalf.
The KSU Foundation strives to provide transparency to donors through various print publications, including the annual report, as well as posting all these publications on this Web site. In addition, the donor relations department of the KSU Foundation provides fund-specific information and annual fund reports to donors for accountability. This department works closely with campus to ensure that funds are being used per the donors’ wishes and then reports that information to the donors. At any time, a donor may contact donor relations to inquire about the use of their funds or with any other questions or comments they may have in regard to their donations.
July 1 through June 30.