The Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation was created in 1944 and incorporated under the laws of the Districted of Columbia. During the first thirty-five years of its existence the Foundation's activities were limited to a few scholarships and student loans.
In the late 1970's, as part of plans for Sigma Alpha Mu's 75th Anniversary Celebrations the Foundation embarked on a campaign to increase the number of scholarships awarded. Under the leadership of Lawrence D. Schaffer and Bill Schwartz, fratres and friends of Sigma Alpha Mu were asked to endow funds that would support an annual scholarship grant based on criterion proposed by the donor. The campaign was a great success; to date more than 200 scholarship funds have been created that currently provide 150 endowed student scholarships, and more continue to be added. Details about the Foundation's endowed scholarship program can be found here.
In the early 1990s the Foundation assumed responsibility for the Sigma Alpha Mu Voluntary Alumni Dues program which was renamed the Annual Appeal. Through the Annual Appeal the Foundation solicits alumni for donations that are used to support the Foundation's operations, scholarships and leadership grants to Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity. Alumni contributions to the Annual Appeal have allowed the Foundation to support more than $1,000,000 in educational grants to the Fraternity over the past seven years.
In preparation for the Sigma Alpha Mu Centennial in 2009 the Foundation launched a campaign to raise $5,000,000 from alumni and friends of Sigma Alpha Mu. Leading the Campaign to Assure Century2 are co-Chairmen Howard Miller and David Phillips. To date, this initiative raised $5,500,000 to support educational programs, scholarships, and a permanent home for Sigma Alpha Mu. The new Sigma Alpha Mu Headquarters opened in February 2012 and provide a home to both the Fraternity and Foundation.
The Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) charitable organizations; contributions are tax-deductible as prescribed by law. To view the Foundation's IRS Form 990 and other public information please visit guidestar.org.