Frequently asked questions
WHY A SEPARATE FOUNDATION?
As a private, nonprofit organization, The University of Toledo Foundation provides more investment flexibility and a separation between public and private funding.
The Foundation underwrites and provides all fundraising, fund management, and alumni relations functions staffing and associated costs. This reduces the University’s financial and operational commitment in these areas.
WHAT SERVICES ARE PROVIDED?
The Foundation’s responsibilities include:
- Raising philanthropic support
- Recording, receipting, acknowledging and reporting gifts
- Investing funds
- Providing stewardship
- Maintaining a database of alumni, donors and friends
- Assisting the efforts of the Alumni Relations Office
HOW IS THE University of toledo FOUNDATION GOVERNED?
The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees. These alumni and community leaders have expertise in a variety of areas. Trustees help oversee the Foundation's policies and procedures, and monitor its finances.
HOW ARE OPERATIONS FUNDED?
The Foundation's operating budget is provided by an administrative fee assessed to its endowment. That rate, lowered six times since 1995, is currently 1.40 percent of the endowment's three-year fund value average.
WHO DECIDES HOW MONEY IS SPENT?
You decide how your gift is used. More than 95 percent of contributions to the Foundation are designated by the donor for a specific purpose or area of use. Guidelines for large gifts and endowments are outlined in a written agreement. Unrestricted gifts are used for priority needs determined by the University.
WHO DECIDES HOW MONEY IS INVESTED?
To maximize your gift, the Investment Committee of the Foundation Board of Trustees works with several investment managers who manage specific asset classes geared toward their strengths. A master custodian holds and reports assets. The Foundation's spending policy, currently 4 percent of the endowment's three-year fund value average, preserves the value of the Foundation's endowment. This provides a reliable source of funds for the University's current and future opportunities and needs.
