Office of Sponsored Programs
WELCOME TO SHEPHERD UNIVERSITY’S OFFICE OF SPONSORED PROGRAMS (OSP)
WHAT ARE SPONSORED PROGRAMS?
“Sponsored Programs” refers to all the projects, activities, and initiatives across campus which are financed in whole or in part through grants from external funders.
It is the goal of our office to nurture and sustain a culture of successful, varied, and well-supported grantsmanship here at Shepherd University.
To this end, we offer assistance above and beyond those functions which we are REQUIRED to perform for EACH and EVERY GRANT.
The summaries below list our primary responsibilities as well as our most frequently requested additional services.
If you are involved with grants…or think you might want to be…. we are here to help you FIND funding, prepare proposals that WIN, and effectively MANAGE your award.
Please contact us early and often! We are excited to work with you.
WHAT DOES THE OFFICE OF SPONSORED PROGRAMS DO?
OSP staff must perform the REQUIRED FUNCTIONS listed on the “Summary of Services” below for all Shepherd University grants, regardless of funding source or amount.
OSP staff are delighted to provide additional OPTIONAL SERVICES upon request. See “Summary of Services” below for examples of such.
SUMMARY OF SERVICES:
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Finding Grants – REQUIRED FUNCTIONS
Assess proposed funding opportunities for mission alignment, eligibility, competitiveness and value to effort ratio
Finding Grants – OPTIONAL SERVICES
Provide grant finding support and resources for new and experienced grant-seekers
Identify and share possible funding opportunities
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Winning Grants – REQUIRED FUNCTIONS
Review proposals to ensure content quality, policy compliance, and fiscal feasibility
Secure written approval from supervisors and stake-holders
Supply timely notice of proposals to all Shepherd personnel whose work responsibilities would be impacted by the project
Complete submission of proposals via online forms or portals when applicable
Winning Grants – OPTIONAL SERVICES
Review, edit, and proofread narrative drafts
Facilitate internal or external collaborations and/or solicit letters of support
Budget calculations, cost share research, financial proofing, and budget justification support
Consult with fund administrators
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Managing Grants – REQUIRED FUNCTIONS
Complete paperwork and processes for award acceptance and project closure
Establish/maintain bookkeeping records
Request/accept monies from funders
Monitor grant activity to ensure policy compliance, fiscal responsibility, and project scope fidelity
Act as liaison to the funder especially during budget realignments or other change requests
Managing Grants – OPTIONAL SERVICES
Help with navigating the requirements for purchasing or hiring using grant funds
Assist with budget management, expense tracking, and financial reports required by funder
Editing and/or proofread technical or program reports required by funder
Conduct research and/or engage in creative problem solving as needed for effective grants management
Seek and support positive publicity and/or career opportunities for grant-winners
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