The mission of the Geological Society of America Foundation (“Foundation”) is to develop and provide funds to support the goals and programs of the Geological Society of America. These funds are distributed according to the needs of the Society and in a manner consistent with the desire of the donors.
The Foundation was created in 1980 to raise funds in support of the Decade of North American Geology—the signature event of GSA’s centennial in 1988. The Foundation subsequently secured support for a major expansion of GSA headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. Today, the Foundation continues to serve current and future donors by providing information and solutions that align their philanthropic interests with GSA programs and priorities. Through this partnership with GSA members and potential corporate supporters, the Foundation is now able to provide over $1 million annually to GSA.
Communicating Our Science
From its first published proceedings in 1890, GSA has existed to advance and share the extraordinary promise of geoscience. Across its many decades, we have seen industries, technologies, and frontiers of knowledge rise and fall; we have seen the landscape of geoscience shift around us, often through the leadership of our own members. Through every change, our deepest commitment has remained constant: to support our science with the full range of tools and tactics available to us. The Foundation stands firm as a steadfast partner, committed to advancing quality science and the application of geoscience in the service of humankind. To this end, the Foundation supports GSA in a variety of programmatic fronts including:
Scientific Meetings: Vibrant scientific meetings remain essential for the exchange of innovative ideas and knowledge within the geoscience community. The Foundation’s support of GSA meetings amplifies the quality of technical sessions, fosters cutting-edge short courses, and guarantees an array of field trips that enrich the experience of those in attendance.
Future Geoscientists
The future of our field—and the brightest future for our world—depend on the young geoscientists we engage today. The next generation of scientists bring a new and exceptional diversity of backgrounds and strengths to their work. As early career research, fellowship, and mentorship opportunities increase, our field’s pipeline of workforce-ready, trained professionals does, too.
The Foundation is dedicated to empowering the next generation of innovators, explorers, and leaders in the geosciences. Through our active solicitation for donors in support of many endowment funds, we assist GSA through programs including:
- On To the Future (OTF) Program
- GSA Student Research Grants Program
- J. David Lowell Field Camp Scholarship program
- Roy J. Shlemon Mentor Program in Applied Geology
- GeoCorps Program
Policy
Every day on Capitol Hill, lawmakers and leaders create and enact the policies that fund the majority of earth science research, regulate natural resources and drive resource exploration, and shape the broader landscape of science education. We must ensure that wherever these critical issues are discussed, geoscience is at the table. The Foundation’s support of engagement with both policy makers and decision makers is crucial for GSA to meet this need.
Purpose of the Position
The Geological Society of America Foundation (GSAF) is seeking a full-time Executive Director to lead the Foundation alongside its Board of Trustees in its efforts to work with a broad range of partners to generate financial resources in support of the Geological Society of America (GSA) programs and priorities. The Executive Director will partner with the GSAF Board of Trustees to determine strategies and an implementation plan and to serve as a visible and dynamic executive responsible for advancing the organization’s mission. As the most senior executive to the Foundation, this individual will be energized by collaborating across geology, earth sciences, academia, non-profit, corporate, and other stakeholders to advance the Foundation/Society’s mission.
Key Responsibilities
Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director will serve as the chief executive of the organization, as well as its most senior administrative and development officer. The Executive Director will be responsible for the further development and execution of the Foundation’s philanthropic work, oversee foundation operations, and create and execute short- and long-term organizational strategies.