Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Foundation?
Tarleton State University Foundation, Inc. is a public non-profit organization established to provide financial assistance to Tarleton State University primarily from earnings on endowed funds, gifts, or property. The Foundation acts independently of the University and the Texas A&M University System solely for the benefit of Tarleton State University.
Is my gift tax-deductible?
Yes, as permissible by law.
What are some examples of types of gifts the Foundation receives?
- Cash
- Check
- ACH Drafts
- Publicly held securities or stock
- Tangible Personal Property
- Real estate
- Deferred gifts: Bequests, Charitable Remainder Trusts, Gift of Life Insurance, Charitable Gift Annuities
Where is the Foundation’s office located?
The Foundation office is located in Room 221A of the Tarleton Administration building on the Stephenville campus.
How do I create a scholarship endowment or an endowment of any other type?
An endowment may be established with a $25,000 minimum donation. The Executive Director for the Foundation will meet with the donor to establish criteria upon which the endowment is administered. An agreement will be signed by both the donor and the president of the Foundation, outlining the purpose and criteria for the endowment. All endowments must be invested for a minimum of one year before distributions from that endowment are made.
Endowments can be used for any purpose that supports the mission of the Foundation. Some of the endowments the Foundation administers are designated for book support, scholarships, faculty awards, professorships, and departmental support. Endowment distributions will be determined annually consistent with the goals of preserving the endowment nature and purchasing power of the funds on a long-term basis so that your gift will grow and be beneficial for years to come. All of the endowments support Tarleton State University or the Foundation.
If I cannot meet the $25,000 minimum, can I still make a gift?
Absolutely! Options include supporting a one-time scholarship, giving to a department, supporting a University activity, and providing support to the Foundation to continue its support of Tarleton State University.
Are there fees associated with my gift?
In accordance with the Affiliation Agreement between the Foundation and Tarleton State University, 4% fees may be assessed at the time your gift is made. These fees are held by the Foundation and used for University operations such as special projects and to aid in budgetary constraints. The donor will receive full credit for their gift and the fees do not reduce the amount given to meet a commitment. To read more about fees associated with your gift, please see the button below.
Do the trustees of the Foundation receive compensation? How is the Foundation governed?
No. The Foundation Board of Directors is a volunteer board. It consists of 11-25 experienced individuals who are dedicated to promoting Tarleton State University and its students. An Executive Committee has the immediate charge, management, and control of activities and operations of the Foundation.
How many endowments does the Foundation administer?
Over 225
How are the Foundation’s investments made?
The Foundation manages, invests, and distributes all funds in the trust estate of the Foundation for the furtherance of educational purposes at Tarleton including book support, scholarships, faculty awards, professorships, departmental support, and any other activities permissible under the laws of the state of Texas. Currently, funds are invested and managed through HighGround Trust Company.
If I created an endowment, will I receive any reports about it in the future?
Yes. Endowment reports are distributed to the donors of the funds annually. The Foundation makes every effort to provide these reports by December 31st of each year.
Is the Foundation audited?
Yes. The Foundation is audited annually by independent certified public accountants that are members of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Tarleton State University Foundation, Inc. is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization existing solely to support the mission and goals of the University. All contributions are tax deductible to the extent permissible by law.