MCF | Questions and Answers

As an alumnus of an independent college I am proud to support the Michigan Colleges Foundation. With the personal attention I was given by my professors and Albion faculty, I developed a well-rounded base of knowledge to be successful in my job as well as a strong sense of community - trademarks of an independent education and qualities I now look for in potential employees.

Kevin Asher, Albion Alumnus
Senior Audit Manager, Ernst & Young
MCF Trustee and Business Volunteer

Support for higher education is an important part of DaimlerChrysler's commitment to the community. We are proud to continue our support for the Michigan Colleges Foundation and encourage other companies to invest in the 14 member colleges of MCF.

Frank W. Fountain
President
DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund

The Michigan Colleges Foundation is a smart investment choice for Michigan businesses.

Jim Nicholson
President
PVS Chemicals

1. Independent Colleges are private colleges for the wealthy, right?

Not at all. Family income of independent college students is the same as those of students attending public institutions, and more than 90% of Michigan's independent college students receive financial aid.

2. How long has MCF been in existence?

The Michigan Colleges Foundation was organized on August 9, 1949 with five member colleges as charter members. We now have 14 member colleges which enroll over 34,000 students.

3. What does MCF do with the money raised?

Gifts to MCF are distributed to our member colleges for a variety of uses. These include financial aid and academic scholarships, keeping tuition costs down, purchasing of scientific and technical equipment, and special enrichment programs.

4. Why should I give to The Michigan Colleges Foundation instead of simply giving to the school?

A donor can contribute a single gift while assisting all 14 colleges and avoid multiple solicitations.

5. Public Colleges or Private Colleges, what is the difference to a prospective student?

Private colleges are generally smaller than public colleges. The student to faculty ratios are smaller with private colleges and students are most often taught by professors rather than teaching assistants. Academics and campus life are set within a value-oriented context.

6. What about diversity?

The proportion of minority students enrolled in state and independent four-year institutions is similar (19.9% at private institutions vs 19.1% at public institutions.) In addition, private colleges retain and graduate minority students at a rate more than 25% higher than at public institutions.

7. How successful has MCF been?

Since its inception, MCF has raised $68 million dollars on behalf of its member institutions.

We take this opportunity to congratulate you on the good job you are doing for MCF. We look forward to another good year.

Herbert A. Beyer
Executive Director
The Charles DeVlieg Foundation

We thank you for the opportunity to be a part of the process to assist economically challenged students to pursue college degrees.

Daniel A. Gordon
President
Steelcase Inc. Employee Scholarship

“By supporting the Michigan Colleges Foundation, Steelcase is able to invest in our corporate future.”

Faye Richardson

Director, Global Learning

Steelcase, Inc.