Take the Vernon Challenge. Knock Out Financial Barriers.
Help remove financial barriers to college with a gift that goes further. Through December 31, 2026, the Vernon 125 Challenge will match eligible gifts to the Iowa College Foundation dollar for dollar, up to $75,000 in total matching funds.
Established by Chris and Denise Vernon through the Chris & Denise Vernon Charitable Trust, the challenge connects two milestones: ICF’s upcoming 75th anniversary in 2027 and The Vernon Company’s 125-year legacy of investing in communities and the future.
How the Vernon 125 Challenge works
The challenge encourages new donors to give, current donors to increase their support, and former donors to reconnect with ICF. Matching funds can help generate up to $150,000 in combined donor gifts and trust support for Iowa students and independent higher education.
For example, an eligible $1,000 contribution can unlock an additional $1,000 from the challenge, creating $2,000 in combined support, while matching funds remain available.
Who qualifies for the matching gift
- New donors making their first gift to ICF
- Current donors increasing their annual support, with the increased amount eligible for the match
- Returning donors who have not given to ICF in the past two years
Why your support matters for Iowa students
ICF removes financial barriers so every student can access independent higher education—unlocking opportunity, inspiring leaders, and strengthening Iowa’s future. Your support advances that mission through scholarships, institutional support, and partnerships that connect students with career opportunities.
Across ICF’s 21 member colleges and universities, more than 36,000 students are pursuing their futures. Ninety-five percent receive financial aid, and nearly one in three is Pell eligible. Approximately 70 percent of graduates remain in Iowa after graduation, contributing their talents to communities and employers across the state.
Give by December 31 to help unlock the match!
Join Chris and Denise Vernon in expanding opportunity for Iowa students. Make your eligible gift to the Iowa College Foundation by December 31, 2026, and help unlock the Vernon 125 Challenge match.
