Memphis Athletics Celebrates Record-Breaking Fundraising Year in 2024-2025
Jul 16, 2025 | General, M Club, Memphis Athletics Fund
MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The University of Memphis athletics department is excited to announce a record-setting year of philanthropic fundraising, securing $32.03 million in over 6,000 new gifts and commitments during the 2024-2025 fiscal year. This milestone reflects the continued generosity of alumni, fans and supporters who recognize the important role Tiger Athletics plays - not only on campus and in the Memphis community, but also within the evolving landscape of college athletics.
The historic fundraising year shattered the last year's record of $30.74 million and was highlighted by a $10 million gift from the late Fred Smith and the Smith family. The donation by the Smith Family was the first of five installments towards the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium renovation.
Memphis Athletics also received a seven Principal Gifts (pledges of $1 million or more) and 22 Leadership Gifts (6 pledges of $500,000 or more and 16 pledges of $100,000 or more) during the 2024-25 fiscal year. These game-changing investments continue to help position Memphis among the top-performing Group of Six institutions in annual fundraising success.
"Breaking this fundraising record is a reflection of the unwavering passion and commitment of our fans, alumni, and the Memphis community," Senior Vice President and Director of Athletics Ed Scott Ph.D. said. The generosity of our donor base fuels our student-athletes' success on and off the field and positions our program for a bold and competitive future. We are incredibly grateful for the belief in our vision and the momentum it creates for what's next."
In addition, nearly $210 million has been secured in support of two major facility initiatives - the Liza Wellford Fletcher Capital Campaign and the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium Campaign. Beyond capital projects, Memphis Athletics supporters also gave generously to all 19 varsity sports programs, as well as to the department's Cheer, Dance and Pom squads, reflecting a comprehensive commitment to the success of Memphis student-athletes across the board.
The 2024-25 fiscal year marked a renewed emphasis on estate and planned giving, underscored by a $7 million commitment from long-time supporters Gary and Barbara Bryant - their second major gift in the last decade. Contributions like these reflect Memphis Athletics' strategic focus on long-term sustainability, using innovative fundraising approaches to build a lasting foundation that supports future generations of Tigers.
"This historic fundraising year is a testament to the belief that Memphis Tiger alumni and fans have for the university and its athletics department," said Cooper Jones, Deputy Athletics Director & Chief Revenue Officer. "With new gifts and commitments ranging from $10 to $10 million, philanthropic support for the Tigers has never been greater. We're incredibly grateful to everyone in the Memphis community who contributed to this record-breaking year."
HOW TO FOLLOW THE TIGERS:
For complete information on Memphis Tigers Athletics, or how to support the Tigers, visit www.GoTigersGo.com and follow the team's social media channels on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
The historic fundraising year shattered the last year's record of $30.74 million and was highlighted by a $10 million gift from the late Fred Smith and the Smith family. The donation by the Smith Family was the first of five installments towards the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium renovation.
Memphis Athletics also received a seven Principal Gifts (pledges of $1 million or more) and 22 Leadership Gifts (6 pledges of $500,000 or more and 16 pledges of $100,000 or more) during the 2024-25 fiscal year. These game-changing investments continue to help position Memphis among the top-performing Group of Six institutions in annual fundraising success.
"Breaking this fundraising record is a reflection of the unwavering passion and commitment of our fans, alumni, and the Memphis community," Senior Vice President and Director of Athletics Ed Scott Ph.D. said. The generosity of our donor base fuels our student-athletes' success on and off the field and positions our program for a bold and competitive future. We are incredibly grateful for the belief in our vision and the momentum it creates for what's next."
In addition, nearly $210 million has been secured in support of two major facility initiatives - the Liza Wellford Fletcher Capital Campaign and the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium Campaign. Beyond capital projects, Memphis Athletics supporters also gave generously to all 19 varsity sports programs, as well as to the department's Cheer, Dance and Pom squads, reflecting a comprehensive commitment to the success of Memphis student-athletes across the board.
The 2024-25 fiscal year marked a renewed emphasis on estate and planned giving, underscored by a $7 million commitment from long-time supporters Gary and Barbara Bryant - their second major gift in the last decade. Contributions like these reflect Memphis Athletics' strategic focus on long-term sustainability, using innovative fundraising approaches to build a lasting foundation that supports future generations of Tigers.
"This historic fundraising year is a testament to the belief that Memphis Tiger alumni and fans have for the university and its athletics department," said Cooper Jones, Deputy Athletics Director & Chief Revenue Officer. "With new gifts and commitments ranging from $10 to $10 million, philanthropic support for the Tigers has never been greater. We're incredibly grateful to everyone in the Memphis community who contributed to this record-breaking year."
HOW TO FOLLOW THE TIGERS:
For complete information on Memphis Tigers Athletics, or how to support the Tigers, visit www.GoTigersGo.com and follow the team's social media channels on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
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