About SEG Foundation

The SEG Foundation exists to provide support for innovative activities and grant programs that will equip geophysicists with the tools they need in every stage of their professional journey.

Our Mission

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.

SEG Foundation Leadership

The SEG Foundation leadership is comprised of dedicated individuals throughout the geosciences community who give generously of their time, talent, and financial resources. Without the passion and commitment of our donors and volunteers, we would not succeed.

Board of Directors 

Committees

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.

Audit Committee

The primary function of the Audit Committee is to assist the Foundation Board in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities by: Reviewing audited financial reports, appropriate US tax forms, and other financial information of the Foundation; Reviewing and assessing compliance with the Foundation’s policies and procedures; Reviewing the independence and performance of the Foundation’s independent auditors; and Providing an open avenue of communication among the independent auditors, SEG staff, and the Foundation Board. The Chair and members of the Audit Committee shall be appointed by the Foundation Board Chair.

Development Committee

The primary focus of the Development Committee is to assist the Foundation Board in guiding and overseeing the Foundation’s fundraising activities by: Overseeing development and implementation of the Foundation’s fundraising plan; Reviewing and developing fundraising policies and procedures; and Overseeing, evaluating, and participating in ongoing fundraising and stewardship activities. Members of the Development Committee need not be members of the Foundation Board. The Chair and members of the Development Committee shall be appointed by the Foundation Board Chair.

1. Development Committee is divided into six sub-committees with focused areas of fundraising:
   • Campaign Strategy & Planning
   • Annual Giving
   • Corporate Giving
   • Major Gifts
   • Planned Giving
   • Special Events

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee shall have the responsibility for acting on behalf of the Foundation Board, serves as liaison with Foundation assigned staff, handles urgent issues, conducts periodic reviews of Foundation directors, oversees donor/volunteer special awards, and reviews all complaints/concerns received by or in regard to the Foundation. The Committee shall serve as the Gift Acceptance Committee for the Foundation. The Chair, Vice-chair, and Treasurer shall constitute all of the members of the Executive Committee.

Finance/Investment Committee

The Finance/Investment Committee is responsible for overseeing the management of Foundation assets assuring compliance with the requirements and practices of UPMIFA and the Foundation’s Investment Policy Statement. The Committee is also responsible for providing a regular and ongoing review of the Foundation’s financial status, including progress toward fundraising goals. The Treasurer of the Foundation Board shall serve as the Chair of the Finance/Investment Committee unless otherwise designated by the Foundation Board Chair. Members of the Finance/Investment Committee shall be appointed by the Foundation Board Chair.

Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee is responsible for ongoing reviews and recommendations to enhance the quality and future viability of the Foundation Board. It focuses on the following five areas, with specific duties dependent on the Foundation Board’s needs at any specific time, as well as evolving practice: Board roles and responsibilities, Board compensation, Board knowledge, Board effectiveness, and Board leadership. The Chair and members of the Nominating Committee shall be appointed by the Foundation Board Chair.