The SEG Foundation advances geophysics today and inspires geoscientists for tomorrow through funding innovative activities and grant programs that benefit geophysicists, their professional community, the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG), and the general public.
Incorporated in Oklahoma in 1987, the SEG Foundation is a separate 501(c)(3) charitable not-for-profit. We are organized specifically to provide management, reporting, and stewardship services that donors require. Program activities supported by contributions to the SEG Foundation are intended to supplement those supported by SEG’s operating budget. The Foundation depends upon annual contributions like yours to fund important programs for SEG members and for society at large.
Programs We Support
The SEG Foundation supports scientific, educational, and charitable initiatives. In doing so, we disseminate geoscience knowledge to the public for societal benefit. Through the generosity of charitable donations, we support meaningful programs that give students and professionals hands-on experience in the field, professional development, and student assistance. In addition, our members get involved in programs to make a humanitarian contribution around the globe.
Learn more about our three pillars at Programs We Support.
Promoting the Science
We fund professional development programs, lecture series, and continuing education courses that keep geoscientists learning and growing.
- Honorary Lectures
- SEG on Demand (eLearning)
- SEG EVOLVE:
- SEG EVOLVE Carbon Solutions
- SEG EVOLVE Energy Exploration
- SEG Publications
- Near Surface Geophysical Research Award
- SEG online (Wiki)
Supporting Scientists
We support students through scholarships, grants, and events that help them gain experience as the next generation of geoscientists.
- Student Chapters
- Scholarships
- Student Leadership Symposium (SLS)
- Travel Grants
- Field Camps
- SEG Challenge Bowl
- Historical Preservation
Expanding Humanitarian Impact
We fund initiatives like Geoscientists without Borders® and sustainability projects. These innovative programs give members the hands-on experience of applying their geophysical expertise to humanitarian challenges.
- Geoscientists without Borders®
- Sustainability Lectures
Donor recognition is a central part of the SEG Foundation’s commitment to honor those who make our work possible.
Each year we formally recognize our individual donors, Trustee Associates, and corporate sponsors whose generosity fuels bold ideas, breakthrough programs, and global access to geophysics.
Your Gift Invests in the Future of Geoscience
“This scholarship is a significant contribution to my educational journey, allowing me to pursue my research with fewer financial concerns. My work focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence to improve geophysical exploration techniques. The support provided by this scholarship is invaluable in helping me achieve my research objectives and academic goals.”
––Alisher Saduov, PhD, Kazakh National Research Technical University
Types of Endowments
Named Endowments
Recognize a donor, family, or honoree through a lasting fund that carries their name. These endowments reflect personal commitment and create a legacy that continues to support future generations.
Program-Specific Endowments
Support a defined area such as Field Camps, Scholarships, or Geoscientists without Borders®. Gifts to these funds ensure that core programs receive consistent, dedicated resources year-after-year.
Unrestricted Endowments
Your gift provides the greatest flexibility, allowing the SEG Foundation to direct funds where they’re needed most––responding quickly to new opportunities and emerging priorities across all programs.
What’s the difference between an endowment and a non-endowed gift?
Endowments
Funds are to be invested and the earnings are to be spent according to the board designated annual spending rate.
Non-Endowments
Funds are to be used for operating and programmatic expenditures and are received with the intent of being spent within 12 to 24 months of receipt.
Leadership, Stewardship, and Governance
SEG Foundation Leadership is composed of passionate geoscientists who contribute time, expertise, and funding. Meet our Board of Directors, staff, and committees driving the mission forward. The important work of the SEG Foundation is carried out through the leadership of five standing committees, providing business guidance and ensuring our financial well-being.
Donor Privacy Policy
At the SEG Foundation, we understand the importance of privacy and are committed to protecting the privacy of our donors (both online and offline). We do not collect personally identifying information about our donors when visiting our site, unless they voluntarily choose to provide such information to us. Furthermore, the SEG Foundation will not share or sell a donor’s personal information with anyone else, nor send donor mailings on behalf of other organizations, unless a donor gives us specific permission to do so.