Faculty and Staff Resources

Private contributions to the Missouri State University Foundation strengthen academic programs, fund professional development, expand research opportunities, enhance classroom technology and foster innovative learning experiences for students. Donor support also plays an important role in attracting and retaining exceptional faculty who are dedicated to student success.  Faculty and staff are essential partners in advancing these efforts. They help build meaningful relationships with alumni, identify prospective donors, and create connections that engage donors with students and the university community.   

Efforts to security philanthropic gifts should be coordinated through the Office of Development within the Division for University Advancement to ensure a unified, strategic and donor-centered experience.  Additionally, this approach ensures that gifts align with both the donor’s intentions and the university’s priorities.    If you are considering applying for a grant that requires a 501(c)(3) IRS designation, please contact Foundation Relations before contacting the grant organization. Foundation Relations enhances  the grant-seeking process by coordinating projects with broader Missouri State University Foundation efforts, managing limited-submission opportunities, assisting with proposal development, maintaining relationships with funders and tracking proposal activity. If a 501(c)(3) designation is not required, please contact the Office of Research Administration for guidance.  If you have an individual or business in mind as a potential donor, please contact the Office of Development.  The Office of Development follows a donor-centric approach, and focuses on long-term, meaningful relationships with current and prospective donors. 

No. The primary purpose of the Missouri State University Foundation is to secure, manage, and distribute private philanthropic resources to support Missouri State University and its students, faculty and staff.  The Missouri State University Foundation does not provide grants; instead philanthropic gifts designated use are based on a donor’s wishes. 

The Office of Research Administration can assist you in submitting proposals to grant organizations that do not require a 501(c)3 IRS designation, including government agencies at the federal and state levels. The Office of Research Administration also works with faculty on sub-awards, contracts and funding from industry for sponsored programs. Please contact the Office of Research Administration if you are interested in these other sources of funding. 

Yes! Crowdfunding is an additional opportunity that allows students, faculty and staff to raise funds in support of Mo State. Past projects have supported hands-on learning opportunities, purchase state-of-the-art classroom equipment, support for clinical placements, and student travel to competitions domestically and abroad. Gifts made through crowdfunding are tax deductible and donors will receive a tax receipt upon making their gift. 

More about crowdfunding

  Engagement with alumni and friends is a core component of development strategy and fundraising.  Faculty, deans and staff play an essential role in helping alumni and friends to feel connected, informed and valued by:  Providing regular updates on academic programs and strategies; Sharing student and faculty success stories; Helping identify potential donors or partners; Participating in donor stewardship and recognition; Engaging alumni through academic and programmatic experiences.

Yes, University units and departments may request alumni and donor information for one-time use for analysis or communication purposes. For more information, please refer to the Alumni and Donor Information Request FAQ.   Please contact the Office of Development if you are interested in having an individual visit with a current or prospective donor.  

Contact the office of University Advancement Relations to learn about criteria and how funds can be used.  

Financial Services can provide Banner Finance access and/or Foundation fund balances.