STRONG FOUNDATION

Since 1983, the Southeast Missouri State University Foundation has raised millions of dollars for the institution. This year promises to be one of the best ever, with some $2.65 million in donations expected from the Copper Dome Society, a organization with 3,000-plus members who contribute to the foundation.

At the 13th annual Copper Dome dinner recently, the positive impact of the foundation was recounted: Partial funding for the new business building to be known as Dempster Hall, 200 endowed scholarships and support for athletic programs and other campus enhancements.

The well-knit organization encourages giving to the university in many ways. Some donors choose to support a favorite program or scholarship. Others show their backing for the public radio station on the university campus. Others favor music programs.

Taken all together, the combined financial support makes a significant contribution to overall operations at the university. All gifts are appreciated by those who become beneficiaries of the generous funding.

To encourage donations and to maintain orderly giving programs, the foundation has maintained the highest standards in its operations. Two of the people who have kept this process running smoothly were honored at the annual Copper Dome dinner.

Don Ford was recognized for his many contributions as director of development for the university from 1991 until his retirement this year. During his stay, Ford developed programs and increased the foundation's membership.

Robert Foster, who is retiring as the foundation's executive director, is ending a long career with the school that included various administrative duties and a one-year stint as the university's president during a period of transition. Under his guidance, the foundation adopted its policies for investing its funds. During the period he was at the foundation's helm, the university endowment climbed to $10 million from $2.1 million.

The combined efforts of Ford, Foster and the many supporters of the university have contributed to a sound financial standing for the foundation. Thanks to these efforts, the university's programs and activities have been generously enriched.