Western Michigan University Foundation Privacy Policy
INTRODUCTION
The Western Michigan University Foundation ("Foundation") is committed to protecting the privacy and security of personal information collected from alumni, donors, friends, current and retired employees, corporations, foundations, and organizations affiliated with Western Michigan University ("WMU") and the Western Michigan Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine ("WMed"). This policy outlines the Foundation’s practices regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information. The Foundation may update this policy periodically, and if significant changes occur, a notice will be posted on our website. Continued use of our services after such updates constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.
INFORMATION WE COLLECT
The Foundation collects information from publicly available sources such as public records, professional directories, and social media. Additionally, we receive information through university sharing agreements with WMU and WMed. Personal details may also be voluntarily provided through donations, event registrations, online forms, and surveys. This can include name, address, phone number, email, educational and professional affiliations, and donor history. Technical information such as website visit data, including IP addresses, browser types, cookies, and device identifiers, is also collected. The Foundation does not purchase lists or data that are not publicly available.
HOW WE USE YOUR INFORMATION
The Foundation processes and acknowledges donations while maintaining alumni, donor, and engagement records, including philanthropic initiatives and WMU and WMed relations. We use collected information to communicate updates, events, and opportunities, conduct research to improve our programs and services, and ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and WMU policies.
HOW WE SHARE YOUR INFORMATION
The Foundation does not sell personal information. Data may be shared with university-affiliated organizations, including WMU and WMed, for engagement efforts. Trusted vendors may also receive constituent information to assist with payment processing, data management, and event planning, under strict confidentiality agreements. Information may be disclosed when required by law, such as in response to subpoenas or court orders. Donor names, class years, and giving levels may be listed in reports unless anonymity is specifically requested.
DATA SECURITY & RETENTION
The Foundation employs security measures to protect personal data from unauthorized access or misuse. Data is stored securely and is accessible only by authorized personnel. Most constituent records are retained indefinitely for archival, donor stewardship, and historical record-keeping purposes. When data is no longer relevant, it may be securely archived or deleted.
MANAGING YOUR PRIVACY PREFERENCES
Constituents may update their communication preferences at any time. Requests can be made via email by clicking the unsubscribe link in Foundation emails or by contacting alumni-donorupdate@ wmich.edu. Requests may also be submitted by mail to 1903 W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, or by calling (269) 387-8700.
USE OF COOKIES & ONLINE TRACKING
Our website may use cookies to enhance user experience and analyze website traffic. Most browsers accept cookies by default, but preferences can be managed through browser settings.
EXTERNAL LINKS
Our website and communications may contain links to third-party sites. The Foundation is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of external websites. Users are encouraged to review third-party privacy policies before providing any personal information.
POLICY UPDATES
This privacy policy is subject to updates reflecting legal, regulatory, or operational changes. Updates will be posted on our website. Continued use of services constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.
CONTACT INFORMATION
For questions or to exercise your privacy rights, contact the Western Michigan University Foundation at 1903 W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49008. You may also reach us by phone at (269) 387- 8700 or via email at alumni-donor-update@wmich.edu. Additional information is available on our website at wmualumni.org.