The Air University Foundation will soon enter its 14th year of providing
financial support to Air University. The foundation, a not-for-profit private
organization, has one objective - to raise funds in support of Air University
schools. The foundation steps in when appropriated funds are not available to
conduct programs that advance the study of air, space and cyberspace power.
“That’s our mission, and for the past thirteen years we’ve provided financial
resources for a wide range of Air University requirements,” said retired Col.
Joe Panza, Air University Foundation executive director. “We have supported many
conferences, symposia, distinguished speaker programs, faculty research, various
award programs and numerous other initiatives.” He anticipates the next year to
be its most ambitious year ever. Air University programs requiring foundation
support have become more numerous and considerably more expensive.
“In the coming year we will
seek funding for a number of high-level conferences and several endowed chair
positions,” Mr. Panza said. “A fully funded endowment could require $2 to $3
million depending on the stature, duties, and annual salary. A full-blown
conference can cost well in excess of $100,000.” Mr. Panza explained that to
raise the required funds, the foundation is making a concerted effort to seek
contributions from the corporate and business communities. In the past, the
foundation has relied mainly on contributions from alumni, retirees and other
individuals to fund programs. “This will not be sufficient in the future,” he
said. “We’re going to need substantially more money to satisfy Air University
requirements next
year. So, we have implemented a number of measures to meet our goals.”
In June, the Air University Foundation hosted a development dinner
attended by approximately 40 business leaders, including representatives from
Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics and a retired Vietnam ace now with Del Gen
Inc. These guests were joined by many local business representatives from
Alabama Power, Calhoun Foods, the Armed Forces Communication and Electronics
Association and the mayor of Prattville. “During the dinner, Lt. Gen. Lorenz,
Air University commander, presented the Air University vision and a
comprehensive look at Air University programs and initiatives. Retired Gen.
Chuck Boyd, Air University Foundation chairman, discussed the role of the
foundation,” Mr. Panza said. “General Boyd pointed out that many programs
envisioned by General Lorenz would not be possible without foundation support.
He invited those in attendance to become active members of the board of trustees
and to work on behalf of the foundation.”
Nearly all of the attendees pledged their willingness to join the foundation board as trustees and to provide financial support. “This support was most welcome and has provided the impetus and leverage we needed to secure other support,” Mr. Panza said. Mr. Panza encourages all officers and Airmen coming through Air University schools to support the foundation. “No one would dispute that in today dangerous world a well-educated military force is essential,” he said. If the thousands of students attending Air University schools would contribute to the foundation, Mr. Panza said, Air University will continue to provide the finest professional military education in the world.