Elevate the College of the Environment, Forestry & Natural Sciences
The College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences (CEFNS) is dedicated to exploration, understanding and preservation of our complex and interconnected natural world. Your gift supports hands-on research, field studies, and educational programs that prepare students to address scientific challenges and create sustainable solutions for future generations.
CEFNS is a college of seven distinct departments, five centers/institutes, 4,415 students, 124 staff and 215 faculty. Our programs span the range of microbiology to astronomy and material science to wildlife fire science and add remarkable value to the college. You can learn more about department specific funding at the bottom of this page.
Giving Day Priorities in CEFNS:
Looking to elevate College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences? Please consider making a gift to the highlighted areas below! Your Giving Day generosity helps to engage, inspire, and transform students in to scholars:
Fuel discovery and innovation by supporting the CEFNS Dean’s Innovation Fund. This fund is vital in advancing undergraduate research, providing resources for students, faculty support, and the overall operation of the undergraduate summer research program. Your contribution helps cultivate the next generation of scientific leaders, giving students the opportunity to engage in hands-on, impactful research experiences.
Dr. Paul Umhoefer Endowed Professorship, School of Earth and Sustainability
Honor the lasting legacy of Dr. Paul Umhoefer, a dedicated geoscientist and mentor who inspired generations of students at NAU. The Paul Umhoefer Endowed Professorship seeks to attract distinguished scholars whose groundbreaking work in tectonics and sedimentary basins will shape the future of the discipline. Your gift ensures that Paul's passion for research and education continues to inspire students and faculty in the School of Earth and Sustainability for years to come.
CEFNS Career Ready Events Fund
This fund empowers CEFNS students to translate their education into meaningful, career-ready futures. By supporting a coordinated and effective career development model, donor investment provides students with access to personalized coaching, hands-on workshops, industry panels, and high-impact networking and recruiting events including our annual in house Career Fair.
Your support directly fuels experiences that connect students with employers, mentors, and alumni by helping them build professional networks, gain confidence, and leverage the skills needed to succeed in today’s evolving workforce. From résumé development and interview preparation to industry-specific market research, students are equipped to navigate their paths with value alignment, clarity and purpose.
Because of this fund, all programs remain free and accessible, ensuring every CEFNS student regardless of background or career aspiration has the opportunity to pursue a fulfilling career and contribute meaningfully to their communities and industries.
Thank You for Fueling Innovation & Excellence
Thank you for supporting our team and the CEFNS mission, your generosity fuels innovation, access, and excellence at NAU. Every gift—of every size—helps create life-changing experiences for our students.
If you don’t see the fund you’d like to support above, click here to see a list of all College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences funds in the Fund Designation drop-down menu.
Thank you for your Lumberjack giving spirit!
