Frequently Asked Questions



Who is NICF?

The Nebraska Independent College Foundation is a tax-exempt, non-profit umbrella 501(c)(3) organization which raises funds for 9 Nebraska independent colleges.

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What does NICF do?

NICF provides a channel through which corporations, businesses, financial institutions, private foundations, and individuals can invest in the member colleges and provide needed operating funds and scholarship grants.

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Where does your contribution go?

The Foundation is endowed by a grant from the Peter Kiewit Foundation for administrative expenses. All contributions go directly to member colleges.

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When was the NICF founded?

NICF was established July 15, 1953 with seven independent private institutions of higher education as charter members. Today 9 independent colleges comprise NICF. Over the years the Foundation has received more than $43.3 million on behalf of member colleges.

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Can I make a designated gift?

Yes, you can restrict contributions to any one, or more, of our 9 member colleges. You can also specify your gift be restricted to scholarships or other special programs.

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Where is NICF located?

NICF offices are located at the following address:

4940 South 114th Street, Suite 5
Omaha, Nebraska 68137

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What is the formula for distributing NICF funds?

Gifts to the Foundation are distributed by an equitable formula of 60 percent equally among member colleges and 40 percent in proportion to the full-time equivalent enrollments. Designated gifts are forwarded directly as specified.

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Who belongs to NICF?

Nine independent private liberal arts colleges of Nebraska comprise the NICF membership. Member colleges are:

Bellevue University - Bellevue, Nebraska

College of Saint Mary - Omaha, Nebraska

Concordia University - Seward, Nebraska

Doane College - Crete, Nebraska

Midland University - Fremont, Nebraska

Nebraska Wesleyan University - Lincoln, Nebraska

Union College - Lincoln, Nebraska

York College - York, Nebraska

All of these colleges and universities are accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.

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Why do we need NICF?

NICF provides an efficient and effective mechanism for contributing to member colleges. NICF assists the colleges by reducing their operating and fund raising expenditures. This results in lower tuition costs for students. Only with the help of NICF can Nebraska's independent colleges continue to attract and educate the state's brightest talent.

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Why should you invest in NICF?

An investment in NICF is an investment in Nebraska's future. Students who attend NICF member colleges tend to stay in the state after graduation and contribute to Nebraska communities. NICF serves as the common bond for member colleges educating those students. By lowering tuition costs and providing scholarships, NICF helps preserve educational excellence at small independent colleges.

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How do I contribute to NICF?

NICF welcomes cash gifts, the most common form of contribution. The Foundation also welcomes gifts of securities, appreciated assets, commodities, and life insurance. Deferred gifts through wills or trusts may be arranged. The legal name of the organization is the Nebraska Independent College Foundation, Inc., a Nebraska corporation.

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How is the Foundation governed?

NICF is administered by a president under the direct supervision of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees. The Board is comprised of the 9 presidents from member colleges, a corporate representative from each of the 9 colleges, and at-large members from the Nebraska business community.

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