Priorities

Why are endowments so important to the University at Albany? Endowment funding is vital to the support of student scholarships, fellowships, professorships, special programs and other academic enhancements. The endowment of a university is its life blood, and is important to the institution's health and value.

Because endowments are held in perpetuity and invested for the long term, endowed gifts provide one of the most secure sources of future revenue. Through The University at Albany Foundation, the University is proud to be able to provide endowed scholarships to students of academic excellence, or to students who have financial need. Endowments also help the University attract outstanding professors, enhance the Library’s rich variety of special collections and materials, help provide for cutting-edge research or allow a donor to memorialize and honor a loved one. A solid endowment ensures that there is a steady flow of income to provide for the purpose of the fund, while leaving the principal untouched.

We are most grateful to donors who take the initiative to ensure the long-term well being of UAlbany, and for their very generous support.

If you have any questions or would like to speak with someone about establishing an endowed fund, please contact the Division of University Development at 518-956-8060.

Mary P. Nicholaou, who earned a master’s degree from the University in 1961, made an estate commitment in memory of her parents that will establish the Nicholaou Excelsior Professorship in Hellenic Studies.

George E. Martin and Kendall Birr

George E. Martin, above left, A.B.’54, M.A.’55, spent his career at UAlbany teaching mathematics. His colleague, the late Kendall Birr, above right, taught history. But the two retired faculty members both worked for decades on behalf of the University Libraries, and established endowments for the Libraries. >>

Ted and Elena Anderson

Ted and Elena Anderson, '82, gave $25,000 toward a Presidential scholarship in Elena's name. >>

Life Sciences Building

The keystone of the Life Sciences Research Initiative is a $78 million life sciences building on the east side of the podium. While the State paid for the construction, the University is seeking $8 million in private support to furnish and equip it, and another $12 million to recruit and support nationally prominent research teams.

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