Sigma Alumni Foundation
A 501(c)(3) driving success for OSU engineering students with alumni-powered housing, mentorship, and career pathway

FAQs
What is Sigma Alumni Foundation, Inc. (SAF) and its primary purpose?
Sigma Alumni Foundation, Inc. (SAF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation under Ohio law. Its main objectives include education, charitable activities, fraternal purposes, and supporting scientific, literary, and other educational pursuits of students. SAF also provides lodging and operates a housing system for members and engineering students at The Ohio State University.
How long do we have to reach the fundraising goal?
We are targeting an 18–24 month window to raise the necessary funds, anticipating a conventional down payment on the house, with the exact transfer price to be finalized with the Theta Tau Foundation.
Is the goal a down payment, and how will the remainder be financed?
Yes. Our goal is to raise between $200,000 and $300,000 as a conservative estimate for a conventional, fair-market-value down payment on the house. The exact purchase price will be determined during negotiations with the Theta Tau Foundation, but they have requested demonstrated alumni support before moving forward with final agreements and providing housing documents.
How will the remainder be financed after the down payment?
The remaining cost will be covered primarily through rental income, with alumni donations and fundraising campaigns encouraged to help accelerate loan repayment and strengthen the chapter’s financial position.
What happens to funds if the goal is not met?
If we don’t reach the goal within the required timeline, all funds raised will remain within our 501(c)(3) nonprofit. These funds are earmarked for educational purposes, such as scholarships and professional development for engineering students and alumni, including direct scholarship support as allowed by the foundation’s policies. This ensures that all donations still further our mission of supporting the educational, professional, and financial advancement of the Sigma Chapter and the broader engineering community at Ohio State.
