The Iowa State University Foundation and Iowa State University are working together to support students’ critical needs, so they can focus on achieving their goals and receiving an exceptional Iowa State education.
As a land-grant university, Iowa State plays a central role in preparing graduates who are highly sought-after for their practical knowledge, positive work ethic and strong leadership skills. But unexpected challenges can mean some students must leave school before fulfilling the dream of an Iowa State degree.
With a gift to any of these funds, you can give a student the lifeline they need to cross that bridge into their future as a proud Cyclone graduate.
On Forever True Day, show your Cyclone Power by supporting these featured areas!
When the going gets tough, Cyclones get tougher. Whether it’s students who have demonstrated the initiative and determination to continue to pursue their education, or the countless alumni and friends who have provided support to members of the ISU community, together we are Cyclone Strong.
This perseverance is the Iowa State way. Cyclones everywhere will meet the challenges that arise and celebrate the resolve that allows us to move forward. Even under normal circumstances, students may live close to the edge financially; for some, circumstances can be overwhelming and may mean falling short in completing their education or simply meeting everyday needs. The Cyclone Strong Fund helps alleviate these unexpected challenges.
Completion grants help students who are nearing the end of their college careers. These Cyclones are good candidates for graduation but have an outstanding U-bill or other expenses and have tapped out other avenues for financial aid.
ISU Emergency Student Support Fund
Emergency grants fill the need at any time during a student's education when they find themselves struggling to pay bills due to an emergency that is out of their control and they have exhausted all other financial resources.
The student-run Students Helping Our Peers (SHOP) program coordinates Iowa State’s on-campus food pantry. Over the last decade, SHOP has provided food and personal care items to thousands of Iowa State University students, faculty and staff. Need is increasing rapidly. During September 2022, SHOP recorded 1,020 visits and distributed over 14,000 pounds of food, over triple the average of fall 2021.
The STORIES (Students on the Rise in Educational Success) program provides resources and a community for foster youth, homeless and other independent students.
Less than 3 percent of foster youth nationally receive a bachelor’s degree. Even after federal aid, the costs and challenges can be insurmountable: college-bound foster youth who age out of foster care, apart from rare circumstances, have no financial sponsor or safety net. Many also experience food insecurity and lack a stable, permanent residence.
STORIES helps these students reach graduation by connecting them with on-campus resources like free tutoring, deferment of fees, support from professionals specializing in advocacy and student empowerment, social service agencies and – perhaps most importantly – a community of peers who can relate to and support each other.
Don’t see the area you’re most passionate about? Check out our full list of giving opportunities!
