Areas of Greatest Need
At UNI, every gift has the power to make a difference. When you give to areas of greatest need, you support students, enhance programs and keep our Panther community strong and connected. Your generosity helps UNI thrive today and build a brighter, bolder tomorrow.
Annual Fund
Unrestricted support through the Annual Fund provides the most flexibility and stability to fulfill our mission and keep the university thriving. From creating stronger connections within the UNI community to elevating the overall student experience, Annual Fund gifts make an impact that is both immediate and far-reaching.
Dean's Funds
The Dean's Funds provide each college the flexibility and stability to direct resources where they are needed most. Your support strengthens academic programs, expands hands-on learning opportunities and supports faculty excellence.
Alumni Engagement Fund
The Alumni Engagement Fund is vital to supporting the UNI Alumni Association, allowing us to build meaningful relationships with more than 130,000 graduates nationwide. Through your support, we're able to expand outreach, enhance programming and ensure every Panther — no matter where they live — has a way to stay informed, involved and inspired.
Explore the impact of the Dean's Funds
College of Education
The College of Education uses its funds to support student and faculty conferences, such as the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) and the Council for Advancement and Support for Education (CASE). The fund also provides student scholarships ranging from $500 to $3,500, helping future educators stay on track and continue pursuing their goals.
"Opportunities like this, along with my graduate assistantship, have significantly contributed to my growth both as a scholar and as an individual. Support through the Dean’s Fund creates experiences that go far beyond the classroom, equipping students to lead, teach and make a lasting impact."
— Timea C.
AACTE Conference Attendee
Interdisciplinary Students M.A., ‘25
Doctor of Education, ‘27
College of Humanities, Arts & Sciences
For the College of Humanities, Arts & Sciences, much of this funding goes toward student scholarships, typically ranging from $250 to $500, helping ease financial barriers and keep students focused on their education. The fund also supports faculty workshops and professional development opportunities, strengthening teaching and enhancing the classroom experience for UNI students.
"As a first‑generation student from a low‑income background, UNI has shaped every part of who I am today. I’m genuinely grateful for anyone who chooses to invest in UNI students because their generosity directly impacts our ability to learn, grow and succeed."
— Daniel L.
CHAS Scholarship Recipient
Communication and Digital Media Production major, ‘28
College of Social & Behavioral Sciences
The College of Social & Behavioral Sciences Dean's Fund typically supports student scholarships, varying from $500 to $3,000, reducing the financial burden and allowing students to focus on their academic and career goals. In addition, it provides support for faculty to attend professional conferences, strengthening the quality of learning across the college.
Wilson College of Business
For the Wilson College of Business, much of this funding supports student participation in conferences and competitions. The fund also supports faculty conference attendance, study abroad opportunities, professional headshots and scholarships varying from $250 to $3,000.
"I have grown so much personally and professionally through a wide range of experiences at UNI. Your support means more than just providing students opportunities; it's providing them with a chance to change their lives."
— Sarah T.
Student Ambassador Conference Attendee
Marketing & Management major, ‘26
Frequently asked questions
- How is my Annual Fund gift used?
- The UNI Annual Fund supports the operations of the UNI Alumni Association and Foundation, ensuring we can continue building relationships, engaging alumni and friends and advancing support for UNI students.
- Why is operational support important?
Strong operations allow us to connect donors with meaningful opportunities, steward gifts responsibly and grow support that directly benefits students.
- How does the Annual Fund impact students?
By sustaining alumni engagement and fundraising efforts, the Annual Fund strengthens scholarships, academic programs and student-focused initiatives across campus.
- How does a dean decide how to use the fund?
The Dean allocates funding to areas of greatest impact, often student scholarships, experiential learning, faculty innovation or urgent needs within the college.
- Why give to a Deans' Fund instead of a specific scholarship?
Deans’ Funds offer flexibility, allowing college leadership to respond quickly and strategically to emerging opportunities.
- How is the Alumni Engagement Fund different from other funds at UNI?
The Alumni Engagement Fund focuses specifically on strengthening connections between alumni, students and the university community.
- How is impact measured for the Alumni Engagement Fund?
Impact is measured by participation rates, event attendance, volunteer involvement and increased student engagement.
