In less than 20 years, MSRI has grown into an Institute with an unrivaled reputation. As a condition of renewal at the end of this funding cycle, the NSF will require us to show that we can raise additional money to complement their funding. MSRI was founded with and continues to receive substantial operating grants from the NSF and other government agencies. The need for additional support has happened over the last five years. The need for building maintenance and more and better space has simply increased with time. This type of expenditure has never been within the guidelines of the NSF. The need for independence from federally sourced funds has increasingly been on our minds. When federal priorities change, or NSF funding is threatened, we realize how vulnerable we are. Last year NSF told us to find additional support to complement their funding, and that we will need to show such support when we ask to have our NSF funding renewed.

The Institute identifies important areas for study in the mathematical sciences, gathers experts to define and study the crucial problems in the area, and nurtures the next generation of researchers to learn from and expand on the work that has come before. This process, in which the entire mathematical community participates, enriches mathematics and benefits society.

Through the years, trustees, friends, academic sponsors, and alumni who share MSRI's goals have given money to MSRI to further these goals.

Today, due to the changing situation with respect to MSRI's government support (primarily funding from the National Science Foundation, National Security Agency, and Department of Energy) the Institute must build an annual fund and endowment to fulfill its promise.

MSRI also needs to improve its building. The original design has served MSRI and its members well, but the lecture hall and library must be expanded and remodeled to accommodate the growth in audiences and research materials, as well as the changing nature of mathematical collaboration and advancement in technology.

These objectives can only be attained through the generosity of loyal friends, whether trustees, alumni or community supporters, who understand and love the beauty of mathematics and believe in the value of this outstanding research institute.

Ways to Give offers an introduction to ways you can contribute to the Institute. Your gift will ensure a bright future for mathematics research and the world we live in.