Faculty & Staff Campaign

Dear colleagues:

Today's demands prompt us to rethink education, career readiness and respond to the challenges of the world. Together, we are building the UNI tomorrow needs. We know you work every day to ensure our students meet the challenges of today. But now we ask for you to invest in Our Tomorrow. Will you join us in building a better tomorrow?

Since the kickoff in fall of 2022, more than 1,200 faculty and staff have contributed to the Our Tomorrow campaign. Thank you! Faculty and staff participation is critical to the success of Our Tomorrow. To date, the UNI Foundation has raised over $248.8 million towards the $250 million goal. Every gift makes a difference and is an important investment in our university’s future.

Please consider making a gift, if you've not already. You are able to choose any fund you would like to support! All gifts will strengthen UNI’s ability to meet the challenges of tomorrow. This campaign will support all areas of the university — every college, every student.

We cannot build the university of tomorrow without you investing today.

Best wishes,

Christopher Larimer, ‘01
Professor of Political Science

Kelli McCarthy, ‘16
Special Events and Patron Relations Manager, Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center

‌Robert L.Smith, Jr.
Executive Director, Educational Opportunity Programs & Special Community Services

Give today

Share your giving story

Anna Gilbreath in an art studio shaping clay

Your gift makes a difference

Make an impact

To build Our Tomorrow, we're asking our colleagues to join the 1876 Society. By committing $18.76 a month through June 30, 2026, you will join a group of devoted and passionate faculty and staff. As a token of thanks, you will receive a custom mug or flower pot created by UNI art student Anna Gilbreath. Limited mugs and pots remain; make your gift now.

Give now

Supporting Our Tomorrow

A UNI class meets outside of Bartlett Hall

See the difference you make

Faculty & Staff Campaign Committee

Gwenne Berry

Jess Betts

Terri Crumley

Christopher Larimer, co-chair

Cassie Luze

Hillery Oberle

Jordan Rockwell

Kelli McCarthy, co-chair

Robert Smith, co-chair

Kristin Woods

Your questions answered

Why is faculty and staff giving important to UNI?

Faculty and staff involvement plays a major role in ensuring UNI’s success. As faculty and staff, we invest our time and talent everyday, but our financial support is as valuable to UNI.

How can I contribute to the campaign?

There are several ways to give. Payroll deduction or an automated payment is the simplest way to give. Even a monthly contribution can, over several years, multiply into a sizable gift. If you prefer, you can also make a one-time gift.

To make your gift: GIVE NOW through the pledge and payroll deduction form.

Or mail to: University of Northern Iowa Foundation Financial Services 121 Commons Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0239

Does it matter how much I give?

The goal of the Faculty & Staff Campaign is participation. It’s not about the size of the gift. It’s about the participation rate, and we hope we can achieve 100% participation.

Is there a minimum amount for payroll deduction?

We ask for a minimum of $5 per initiative, per month for all gifts including cash, check, credit card and payroll deduction gifts.

Where can I direct my gift?

We want you to give to an area that is important to you. Wherever you make your gift, you are helping to transform the future of UNI.

All gifts to the university will count toward the campaign. A list of giving options is in the drop-down menu of the online pledge form or through the payroll deduction form.

Can I give in memory or honor of someone?

Yes, many give to UNI in memory of a loved one, colleague, or a beloved faculty member for the exceptional education they provided.

Is my gift tax-deductible?

Yes! All gifts to UNI through the Faculty & Staff Campaign are tax deductible up to what is allowable by law.

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Yes, thank you for your support!

When will my payroll deduction start?

New deductions and changes to payroll deduction will begin when the payroll office uploads the changes. Payroll deduction can take up to 3 weeks to start, based on when the form is received.

Can I make a gift jointly with my spouse or partner?

Yes! Mark on the form or the gift card that the donation is a joint gift and provide your name and the name of your spouse or partner. If your spouse or partner also works at UNI, they will also receive credit for participation.

Will my gift be matched?

If your spouse works for a matching gift organization, your gift may qualify to be a matching gift. Specify this information on the pledge form and ask your spouse to complete their company’s matching gift request form.

Who knows if I've made a gift?

Gift amounts are always confidential and are never shared with anyone. You can have your gift recognized by name only, or you can choose to remain anonymous.

What if I leave UNI before my pledge is completed?

Your pledge is a good-faith intention; it is not considered a debt. We realize that personal circumstances can change. If you need to change your pledge, call or email the Advancement Office (319-273-7118 or unif.financial.services@uni.edu) to discuss it with us.

How do I make a named gift?

For naming opportunities (endowed scholarships, space naming, etc.) please contact Nate Clapham.

If I make a named gift, do I need to pay it all at once?

No. You can fulfill pledges to the campaign over a period of up to five years. Fulfilling a pledge over several years can be a great way to make a larger gift to UNI than you thought possible.