The generosity of alumni and friends is responsible for much of the University's progress. Gift dollars used to support faculty chairs and professorships and to fund faculty development allow Georgia State to recruit and retain outstanding teachers and researchers. Contributions for scholarships and fellowships help students achieve their educational goals. Private funding will often provide the extra support needed to launch new programs or to strengthen established areas of study. Supplemental support provides seed money for the research efforts of younger faculty members and for those projects that may not be eligible for major federal funding.