Like most other public universities, Marshall University receives only a portion of its revenues directly from state government. Federal dollars are sometimes allocated to specific projects or infrastructure needs. Tuition, which has failed to keep pace with inflation over the past decade, accounts for a small percentage of university revenues.

Marshall University must rely on private donors to support the rest – everything from scholarships to faculty hiring and retention to equipment for classrooms and laboratories. When new buildings are built, state funds pay for the actual cost of construction – but not for the furnishings needed to bring those spaces to life. Gifts and endowments also enable a university to weather the inevitable “lean years,” when budget cuts and competing priorities result in greater challenges for public institutions.

An endowment preserves capital, overcomes inflation, and provides long-term, reliable income to the University. For example, a $100,000 scholarship gift might be awarded to deserving students at $5,000 per year – meaning the scholarship fund will be depleted in 20 years. But if that $100,000 were used to establish an endowment, the gift would be invested and a portion of the earnings used to award scholarships. Another portion would be used to increase the principal and offset investment costs. The endowment would therefore continue to grow over time, supporting scholarships for as long as the University exists.

Every gift makes a difference. Through The University Fund, even relatively small gifts can have a major impact. Just $25 can purchase a new library book or slides and petri dishes for a biology lab. A $100 gift can help a student research an honors thesis. $500 can support an internship or award a stipend to a graduate student. And when combined with hundreds or even thousands of other “small” gifts, the University can hire new faculty members, offer merit scholarships or meet a host of other critical, ongoing needs.

Endowments and scholarships are often named in honor of a family member or friend. Also, naming opportunities for classrooms and gathering spaces, laboratories, and buildings are available for donors who wish to honor or memorialize their loved ones in this manner.

Yes, donors often choose to remain anonymous. Marshall University always respects a donor’s stated wish for privacy.

Yes, the Marshall University Foundation is a federally-recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Gifts to the Foundation are therefore tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

The company you work for may match your gift to a non-profit educational organization like Marshall. Matching gifts can increase the impact of your gift without decreasing the size of your wallet, and Marshall recognizes you for the full amount! If your employer matches gifts, obtain the proper form and simply return it with your contribution.

That’s great! There are many different ways you can give back to Marshall, below are a few for you to explore!

ANNUAL FUND – Annual Giving provides critical support for the University’s annual operating budget, ensuring that its programs continue to be of the highest quality and helping to keep tuition as affordable as possible.

MAJOR GIVING & CORPORATE GIVING – At Marshall University, the phrase “Major Gift” is reserved for contributions that combine a significant financial investment with a transformative vision.

PLANNED GIVING – When you include the Marshall University Foundation in your estate plan, your generosity advances the public good through innovative, accredited educational programs.

SCHOLARSHIPS – Marshall University has a number of endowed and annual scholarships that have been established through the Marshall University Foundation by individuals who deeply care about Marshall University and its students.