University of Southern Maine Foundation

The University of Southern Maine Foundation serves as a catalyst for transformation at the University of Southern Maine.

As an independent, nonprofit organization, the USM Foundation works side by side with the University to support the aspirations of our students and the strategic vision of USM.

The Foundation helps to expand access to education for students and strengthen pathways to academic and career success. Through the generosity of our alumni, friends, and donors, we provide more students the opportunity to excel in their studies, graduate, and build fulfilling lives as they contribute their talents to Maine's workforce. The USM Foundation works side by side with USM to support the aspirations of our students as an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a 4-star rating on Charity Navigator and a Gold Status with GuideStar.

We do this by:

• Raising the critical funds needed to support scholarships and other academic needs
• Tapping into our powerful USM alumni network
• Collaborating with our community and employer partners

Why Giving Matters

• 43% of USM students are first-generation college students
• 73% rely on scholarships and financial aid to pay for their education
• Nearly 42% qualify for Federal Pell Grants, targeted to lower-income families
• $24,355 is the average student debt burden at graduation

Fostering a Culture of Generosity

The USM Foundation engages with alumni, community and employer partners to encourage philanthropic support for USM. These resources benefit scholarships, academic programs and new initiatives that will enrich the USM experience, today and for generations to come.

A Catalyst for Transformation

Now in our third decade of service, the USM Foundation is pursuing new and innovative ways to strengthen scholarship programs, raise capital and achieve ambitious goals, as we help to fuel transformation at the University of Southern Maine.

Policies

The University of Southern Maine Foundation adheres to the Non-Discrimination Policy of the University of Southern Maine, and has a whistleblower policy in place to prevent or detect and correct improper activities.

Ainsley N. Wallace is the President and CEO of the USM Foundation and leads an experienced and resourceful team dedicated to supporting the success of the University. The Foundation is an independent, nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization governed by a Board of Directors, which has full responsibility for the Foundation’s strategic direction and advancement efforts.