What is the National Defense University Foundation?

The National Defense University Foundation (NDUF), established in 1982 as a non-profit organization, provides private sector support for the National Defense University in mission-oriented areas otherwise not funded by the government.   The University, by federal law, cannot solicit or hold private funds and depends on the Foundation for additional financial resources and program support worthy of any great educational institution.

Through a comprehensive and nationwide fundraising and outreach program, the Foundation solicits philanthropic individuals, corporations, and organizations supportive of the NDU mission and committed to a secure and strong America. Additionally, NDUF in collaboration with the University develops and manages outreach programs that help educate and engage the American public for a better understanding of critical national security issues.

The NDU Foundation is housed in historic and reportedly haunted Grant Hall on Fort McNair.

As with any federal or state funded college, appropriated funds generally cover “core” operating and capital expenses, but often do not fully fund an array of educational programs and activities.  For example, the Foundation augments funding for the international students program to ensure the fullest possible exposure to American people and culture of both students and family members.  It is important to note that many of these international students go on to high level military and government leadership positions in their respective countries.  We count presently 9 Chiefs of Services and 11 Ministers of Defense or equivalent Command positions among NDU graduates

National Defense University falls under the direction of the Joint Chiefs of Staff or the Department of Defense. As government employees, the University leadership and faculty are prohibited from private fund-raising . The Foundation helps to fill this void.  The Foundation is the exclusive vehicle for endowments, non-governmental grants, and various faculty and student awards. The Foundation also supports a range of significant activities such as university symposiums and conferences, congressional security courses, and faculty development which are not otherwise supportable within the University's formal budget.

In response to ongoing U.S. conflicts, diplomatic challenges and the continued threat of terrorism, National Security Education is the key to improving U.S. success and interagency cooperation.  In the spring of 2007, President Bush issued an executive order stating "...to enhance the national security of the United States...it is the policy of the United States to promote the education, training, and experience of current and future professionals in national security positions in executive departments and agencies."

NDU has been tasked to spearhead this initiative . In anticipation of increased and potentially unexpected needs of NDU, the Foundation has taken its fund raising efforts to a new level.  The American public's support of this vital institution, as it is called upon to pave the way to a stronger global community and more secure nation, is needed now more than ever.