University of Memphis Athletics
Memphis Athletics Reaches New Fundraising Heights with Record-Breaking Year
Jul 02, 2026 | General, M Club, Memphis Athletics Fund
MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The University of Memphis athletics department announced a second consecutive record-setting year of philanthropic fundraising, securing $35.3 million in over 5,500 new gifts and commitments during the 2025-2026 fiscal year.
The milestone reflects the extraordinary generosity of our alumni, fans and supporters, whose investment underscores the vital role Memphis Athletics plays in enriching the University, strengthening our community and positioning the Tigers for sustained success in the ever-evolving landscape of collegiate athletics.
The record-setting fundraising year exceeded the previous record of $32.03 million by nine percent, continuing the remarkable momentum of donor support. The record has pushed Memphis Athletics closer towards the $50 million Smith Family Match Challenge which has now generated $42.15 million in support of the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium project thanks to more than 130 contributors.
Memphis Athletics also received nine Principal Gifts (pledges of $1 million or more) which is two more than the previous year and 22 Leadership Gifts (6 pledges of $500,000 or more and 16 pledges of $100,000 or more) during the 2025-26 fiscal year. These investments continue to help position Memphis among the top-performing Group of Six institutions in annual fundraising success.
"Setting a new fundraising record is a testament to the commitment of our alumni, fans, donors and the entire Memphis community," said Senior Vice President and Director of Athletics Ed Scott, Ph.D. "This milestone reflects a shared belief in the future of Memphis Athletics and the transformative impact our programs have on our student-athletes, our university and our city. Every gift strengthens our ability to provide a championship-caliber experience, invest in the success of our student-athletes and compete at the highest level of college athletics. We are deeply grateful for the incredible support of Tiger Nation and excited to build on this momentum as we continue shaping the future of Memphis Athletics."
Nearly $223 million has been secured in support of three major facility initiatives. The Liza Wellford Fletcher project funding has been fully secured at $8.3 million and will begin construction by the fall of 2026. The fundraising for the Rhodes-Hanson Academic Center has also been completed at $3.1 million, and construction is currently underway with a planned opening of January 2027.
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 generosity of Tiger Nation is truly inspiring, and this year's fundraising success reflects the passion and commitment of our donors," said Cooper Jones, Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Revenue Officer. "Whether it's a recent graduate making their first $25 gift or a longtime supporter making a transformational investment, every contribution strengthens Memphis Athletics. Achieving fundraising results that rival institutions in the ACC, Big Ten and Big 12 speaks to the extraordinary culture of philanthropy within our Tiger family. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who invested in our student-athletes and coaches. It truly is a great time to be a Tiger."
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 milestone reflects the extraordinary generosity of our alumni, fans and supporters, whose investment underscores the vital role Memphis Athletics plays in enriching the University, strengthening our community and positioning the Tigers for sustained success in the ever-evolving landscape of collegiate athletics.
The record-setting fundraising year exceeded the previous record of $32.03 million by nine percent, continuing the remarkable momentum of donor support. The record has pushed Memphis Athletics closer towards the $50 million Smith Family Match Challenge which has now generated $42.15 million in support of the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium project thanks to more than 130 contributors.
Memphis Athletics also received nine Principal Gifts (pledges of $1 million or more) which is two more than the previous year and 22 Leadership Gifts (6 pledges of $500,000 or more and 16 pledges of $100,000 or more) during the 2025-26 fiscal year. These investments continue to help position Memphis among the top-performing Group of Six institutions in annual fundraising success.
"Setting a new fundraising record is a testament to the commitment of our alumni, fans, donors and the entire Memphis community," said Senior Vice President and Director of Athletics Ed Scott, Ph.D. "This milestone reflects a shared belief in the future of Memphis Athletics and the transformative impact our programs have on our student-athletes, our university and our city. Every gift strengthens our ability to provide a championship-caliber experience, invest in the success of our student-athletes and compete at the highest level of college athletics. We are deeply grateful for the incredible support of Tiger Nation and excited to build on this momentum as we continue shaping the future of Memphis Athletics."
Nearly $223 million has been secured in support of three major facility initiatives. The Liza Wellford Fletcher project funding has been fully secured at $8.3 million and will begin construction by the fall of 2026. The fundraising for the Rhodes-Hanson Academic Center has also been completed at $3.1 million, and construction is currently underway with a planned opening of January 2027.
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 generosity of Tiger Nation is truly inspiring, and this year's fundraising success reflects the passion and commitment of our donors," said Cooper Jones, Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Revenue Officer. "Whether it's a recent graduate making their first $25 gift or a longtime supporter making a transformational investment, every contribution strengthens Memphis Athletics. Achieving fundraising results that rival institutions in the ACC, Big Ten and Big 12 speaks to the extraordinary culture of philanthropy within our Tiger family. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who invested in our student-athletes and coaches. It truly is a great time to be a Tiger."
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.
Thursday, April 09
Tuesday, September 02
Friday, March 07
Monday, January 27