Northwestern Foundation History

The Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation, Inc. was founded in 1959 for the purpose of receiving, investing, and ultimately distributing scholarships and awards for the enhancement and support of Northwestern Oklahoma State University. The Foundation reorganized in 1984 and since that time has experienced tremendous growth and development. The Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization as determined by the Internal Revenue Service. The vision for the Foundation was laid by former president Dr. J. W. Martin. Subsequently, the Foundation has continued as a model for many to follow.

The Foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees composed of supportive alumni, the president of Northwestern and area civic leaders. The Executive Committee is elected by the board and comprised of the officers of the corporation, the University President, President of the Alumni Association, and two members at large.

The Foundation's Executive Director is responsible for the general management of the Foundation under the direction of the Executive Committee. The annual meeting of the Foundation is held each September where members gather for the electing of officers and trustees, the annual audit report and presentation of Foundation goals and objectives.

The Foundation operates completely independent from the University and employees three full-time employees, several part-time student workers. The Northwestern Foundation is audited annually by an independent auditing firm and internal audits are also conducted by the audit staff of the Regents for Oklahoma Colleges.

More information is available on our Frequently Asked Questions page.