Philanthropy has been important to Bowling Green State University from the very creation of the institution. The university was founded in 1910 as a teacher training institution, called Bowling Green Normal College. Throughout the university's history, philanthropy has provided benefits and opportunities to the thousands of students who choose Bowling Green.

The Office of Development exists to assist students by providing philanthropic opportunities for Bowling Green's alumni and friends.

The Office of Development mission statement reads, "The Bowling Green State University Office of Development strives to provide resources, in an accountable manner, that will enable BGSU to be a premier learning community."

Through collaborative efforts, strategic planning, and the development and encouragement of the philanthropic spirit, we will identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward benefactors in order to raise the funds necessary to provide for the present as we prepare for the future.

Gifts to the university can be allocated for the university's greatest need or designated specifically to one of over 1,200 funds. Gifts may be designated to an academic area, to scholarships, to any of the various cultural or community programs of the university, to athletics, or to current capital projects. You can also remember a loved one by donating a memorial or honorarium in their name. The Bowling Green State University Foundation manages the donated funds on behalf of the university and related constituent groups.