The University of Central Oklahoma Foundation was established as an independent 501 (c) (3) Oklahoma non-profit organization in 1972 to provide scholarship assistance to deserving students and support for faculty, campus activities and vital programs at UCO. 

In 1994, the Foundation Board of Trustees made the decision to become an active university fundraiser.  Since then, the Foundation has more than doubled its assets, starting with more than $6 million in university donations, university pledges and university estate gifts to more than $20 million today, reflecting the university's continued growth in size, prominence and impact.

The UCO Development Office, which houses the Foundation, serves as the central university fundraising component.  Comprised of a comprehensive staff working in the following areas: alumni, college fundraising, public relations/marketing, university major gifts and grants, university annual giving, and university donor compliance, this group of capable individuals is committed to raising private funds to support the mission and goals of the university which include college scholarship support for students and development of relationships with alumni, friends, donors, and the campus community.