Editor's Note: This page provides additional information for one of the entries on the Foundation's Frequently Asked Questions pages.

Why does the University prefer that gifts be made to the UI Foundation?

The UI Foundation is acknowledged by the UI as the channel preferred by the UI for private gifts to all areas of the University, for several important reasons:

• First, at the University's request, the UI Foundation has developed systems to recognize the generosity of donors (such as membership in The Presidents Club) and to provide reports to donors and their families concerning what their gifts have accomplished. Many donors and their heirs appreciate the Foundation's stewardship program, which is conducted on the University's behalf.
• Second, the Foundation is equipped to manage endowment funds and to assist the UI in making certain that donors' intentions are fulfilled relative to using endowment earnings to support scholarships, faculty chairs and professorships, and other UI programs.
• Finally, many donors prefer contributing to an organization that is governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of their peers, rather than to a governmental body.

The UI Foundation is a highly productive, efficient, and professional fund-raising organization that is committed to excellence and is essential to The University of Iowa and the public it serves.