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

How does the Foundation manage its endowment?

The UI Foundation's endowment comprises many smaller endowed funds created by donors to benefit specific areas of the University. The Investment Committee (IC), responsible for guiding the Foundation's investment program, oversees the endowment. IC members are appointed by the UI Foundation Board of Directors and are selected based on experience and expertise in the areas of business, finance, and investments. Subject to oversight by the Board of Directors, the IC establishes investment procedures and policies, asset allocation, and selects investment consultants and managers.

The UI Foundation's investment objectives are twofold: to seek the maximum total return consistent with preservation of principal, diversification, and avoidance of excessive risk; and to exercise reasonable care, skill, and caution with regard to the investment of funds in the context of our entire portfolio, which incorporates risk and return objectives reasonably suitable to the Foundation's purposes.

The Foundation's investment policies are designed to ensure that our investments, which support people and programs throughout the University, are in the appropriate asset classes at all times, managed by the best available managers, and subject to active oversight.

If you are interested in creating an endowed fund for your favorite UI college of program -- such as an endowed scholarship, faculty position, or research fund -- contact the UI Foundation.