UNC Foundation
Administrative Department
Established in 1966, the University of Northern Colorado Foundation (the Foundation) is an independent, privately governed nonprofit corporation that serves a philanthropic mission as the organization entrusted to provide support and steward donations for the University of Northern Colorado.
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Monday – Friday
History and Mission
In 1966, one of Greeley’s most prominent leaders, Judy Farr, ’32, recognized the need for enhanced financial support for unmet needs at Colorado State College. In an initiative led by Judy and other alumni and community leaders, the Colorado State College Foundation, now the University of Northern Colorado Foundation, was incorporated as a 501(c)3 for the purpose of promoting the general welfare, development and growth of the University of Northern Colorado.
Since its inception, the Foundation has accrued nearly 100 million dollars in endowed and current-use assets through fundraising initiatives and investment growth. With cornerstone values of integrity, accuracy, balance and partnership, the Foundation staff strives to achieve the following organizational objectives in support of the University:
- Every donor will be delighted to give to the University of Northern Colorado.
- Every donation will be maximized toward its purpose.
- Every stakeholder can rely on us to be a trusted source of information.
- We will function as a cohesive team devoted to achieving our shared mission.
Our Impact
The Foundation has grown into a significant source of enhanced financial assistance, providing an annual average of more than $6.7M for scholarships, faculty support and program enhancements. With more than 600 scholarship funds and 425 endowed funds, the Foundation joins UNC in a collaborative effort to support the University’s teaching, research and outreach priorities.
Over the past 12 years, the Foundation has transferred nearly $100 million into scholarship and program support to the University for students, faculty and programs. Of this, roughly half was funded from endowed and quasi-endowed distributions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? Look through the topics below or contact us at 970-351-2034 or via email at uncf.information@unco.edu.
Established in 1966, the University of Northern Colorado Foundation (the Foundation) is an independent, privately governed nonprofit corporation that serves a philanthropic mission as the organization entrusted to provide support and steward donations for the University of Northern Colorado.
We do different things: the University focuses on transforming students’ lives through teaching and research. We provide the financial stewardship to assure donors and the University that gifts are well managed.
Only about 16 percent of the University’s operating budget comes from the state government budget. Private gifts allow the University to bridge the gap between tuition and what students can afford, as well as to attract and retain fine faculty who are dedicated to educating tomorrow’s leaders.
If you have designated a purpose for your gift, such as a scholarship or program, that is where your money is spent. If you have not indicated a purpose, the gift will be spent on the area of greatest need. Given the recent weak economy and the tight squeeze on higher education, you can be sure that every gift makes a difference to UNC.
Yes. Although discretionary (i.e., unrestricted) gifts provide the University with the most flexibility in responding to the needs of the institution, donors can designate a gift to a particular college/school, department, or fund.
The University’s President and campus leadership determine which proposed initiatives and projects become fundraising priorities.
The University of Northern Colorado Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization. All gifts to the Foundation are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. You should consult with your tax attorney/advisor concerning the deductibility of your gift.
Foundation Financial Services
Andy Feinstein
University President
Dale Pratt
Vice President for Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer
Eileen Erickson
Controller
Sarah Gray
Senior Staff Accountant - Scholarship Fund Management
Kat Steward
Staff Accountant - Program Fund Management