What is an endowed fund?
Endowed funds are gifts that are permanently invested to supply a steady, annual source of funds for a purpose specified by the donor. Endowed funds are often named in honor of a donor or loved one and can also be a powerful way to involve family in philanthropy. Because endowed gifts continue to generate income in perpetuity, they provide essential resources to ensure the University's long-term strength and support future generations. Currently, to create a permanent endowment requires a gift of $50,000 or more.
What can it support?
Endowments can support many areas of the University:
- By providing scholarships/financial aid,
- Supporting a particular major or department,
- Enabling travel learning experiences,
- Facilitating research and internship opportunities, and more.
Some of the most powerful endowed funds are left without restriction, allowing the University to adapt to changes in higher education and address emerging priorities.
How is an endowed fund managed?
When you give to OWU's endowment, your funds are invested for the long-term and exist in perpetuity. A portion of the interest income is used for the purpose designated by the endowment terms, while the remainder is reinvested, allowing the fund to grow and provide for the future. Investment oversight for all endowment funds is managed by the Board of Trustees.
As of June 30, 2024, OWU's endowment was valued at more than $300M. Since 2012, OWU's endowment has grown by 75%. OWU ranks in the top 10% by endowment size of all U.S. higher education institutions.