Discovery

Who We Are

Discovery is a group of women who collaboratively grant funds to projects that impact Ball State students and faculty. By making an annual contribution of $1,000, members in good standing review grant applications and vote for the projects that are most meaningful to them. Since 2003, Discovery has awarded over $690,000 to 32 innovative projects.

Purpose

• Provide financial support to innovative educational programs that fulfill the mission of Ball State University.
• Introduce members to the many exciting learning opportunities at Ball State University.
• Inspire women to become leaders in philanthropy  

Sources of Funding

Discovery is funded by annual member contributions. All member gifts are directed to programs at Ball State University. These pooled monies are deposited in the Ball State University Foundation in the Discovery  Collaborative Fund for dispensation each year. The Ball State University Office of Contracts and Grants manages fund disbursements.

History

Discovery is an organization formed to demonstrate the vital role women can play in making a difference through informed philanthropy. It was established to support projects and programs at Ball State University. Unofficially, a small group of women began meeting regularly in Indianapolis in 1998 to learn about special educational programs at Ball State University. In the spring of 2001, a planning committee of six began researching women's philanthropy organizations around the United States that support programs like those at BSU. The research yielded information and contacts that helped form the basis for a woman's giving organization for the University. Once the plans were aligned with some of the University's most important long-range goals, Discovery was ready to go public in January 2002.