Our Mission & Who We Are The WSU Foundation builds on the enthusiasm, pride and loyalty of the Cougar family to grow philanthropic relationships, broaden the base of alumni and donor engagement, and responsibly manage assets to advance WSU’s mission, vision and goals. Our Vision & Where We Are Going To engage alumni, donors and volunteers at the highest level through philanthropic investment and advocacy to advance WSU’s land-grant teaching, research and service mission. The WSU Foundation is part of Washington State University Advancement. WSU Advancement focuses the collective efforts of development, alumni relations, and advancement services professionals to make a difference for WSU and those it serves through philanthropic engagement and investment. The purpose of WSU Advancement is to create and sustain relationships with those who are inspired by the impact WSU makes on the communities we serve—specifically, we help individuals, families, and partners find ways to meaningfully contribute to WSU’s forward trajectory. WSU Advancement puts Cougar spirit into action by engaging in meaningful philanthropic engagement to advance WSU’s land-grant mission.