We are thrilled to announce that we have met the minimum level for the IU Foundation to create this endowment, and we’ll be doing a year-long fundraising campaign to grow it between Jerry’s retirement after the Spring 2022 semester and our alumni & friends reunion in May of 2023.
Vision for The Jerry Hinnefeld Observatory Fund
Endowed Community Outreach
-
- Special observing events for underserved populations, youth organizations and schools
- Promotional materials, transportation assistance, refreshments, paid student guides etc
Endowed Support for Student Projects
-
- Financial support for student researchers
- Support for minor upgrades and new capabilities
Future Aspirations for the Observatory
Dome Automation ~ $25k
-
- Automatic dome rotation with telescope mount
- Enable full remote control from classroom or control-room setting
Showcase Observatory Control Room ~ $200k
-
- Consolidation and renovation of interior office spaces at north end of Northside Hall
- Large video displays for real-time viewing indoors (overflow crowds or those unable to reach roof — ADA compliant)
- Informational displays when not observing, plus images from telescope, visible in hallway
- Windows lining walls to facilitate viewing displays from hallway even when control room not in use
Contributions can be made in one of two ways:
- Online submission using the Make a Gift form at https://www.myiu.org/one-time-gift. This specific fund can be found using the Search all funds field for “Hinnefeld.”
- Postal submission of a hard-copy donor card. These have been sent out to those for whom we have current mailing addresses, but the form can also be printed from the image below (click for PDF of complete card)
