Many students do not know who or what the SIU Foundation is until they receive a call from a student caller.

The SIU Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides alumni and friends of the university a means to invest in the university’s future. Established in 1942, the foundation solicits and administers gifts from private sources in support of the university’s academic mission. Money donated through the foundation is used for scholarships and endowments.

Nanditha Balasubramanian, Director of Annual Giving, is responsible for developing and organizing the fundraiser. Some of these responsibilities include sending mail to alumni and friends, making phone calls and having face-to-face visits.

“I really believe in what we do and can do for the university through our efforts and that commitment is what has really driven me to continue improving upon our initiatives and fundraising effort,” she said.

According to the SIU Foundation’s website, $3.7 million was distributed in support of academic and research activities, $1.4 million benefited the university’s community and public service programs and $2.7 million was awarded in scholarships for the 2013 fiscal year.

Student fundraisers are used to contact alumni to update demographic information and solicit monetary gifts to help fund scholarships.

Taylor Goeckner, a junior from Teutopolis studying management, is a student caller and student supervisor who raised more than $15,000 while employed with the foundation.

“I know the impact that donations made by alumni and friends make to the school,” he said. “Every day I get the chance to talk to friends and alumni of the university… Together I know we are making a real difference in the future of the university and the students.”

Nick Schumacher, a sophomore from Sigel studying business, said he has worked at the foundation for more than a year and enjoys the flexibility of the foundation and how everyone is treated well.

“Working at the foundation is great opportunity as a student and I love speaking to alumni and hearing about their experiences,” he said.

Alexandria Mikeworth, a sophomore from Shelbyville studying business, began working at the foundation this semester. She said she enjoys speaking to alumni, hearing their Saluki experiences and making them feel appreciated. She plans to donate in the future once she graduates.

“I really enjoy being able to help support my school and the academic programs by being able to call alumni and raising money that makes a difference for others,” she said.

Greg Scott, director of Development Communications, said recent economic trends have affected fundraising efforts.

“People are perhaps being more careful with decisions they make from a financial standpoint,” he said. “But the University’s students, faculty, programs and facility enhancement projects have continued to benefit from the support and dedication of devoted alumni, donors and contributors. These individuals and businesses want SIU Carbondale to thrive and succeed now and well into the future.”