DALLAS — What a year it's been for Southern Methodist University (SMU) Athletics as the department announced it raised a record-breaking $159 million fundraising throughout the 2023-2024 fiscal year.
According to SMU, this is a historical milestone all made possible through the support of the SMU community, alumni and fans of the athletic programs.
SMU Athletics says there was an unprecedented $100 million donated in the week following the announcement that they would be joining the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) back in September 2023.
The department credits the First Week Society, which is a group of 30 people who launched a $125 million campaign to support SMU Athletics' transition to the ACC.
Below are some of the highlights of what led to this record-breaking fundraising year for the department:
- 4 eight-figure gifts
- 35 seven-figure gifts
- 82 six-figure gifts
- 4,831 Mustang Club members
"We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support from our donors, alumni, and the entire SMU community," Director of Athletics Rick Hart stated. "This record-breaking fundraising year is a testament to the belief in our vision for SMU Athletics and our commitment to excellence as we enter the ACC."
The National Association of Athletic Development Directors named John Whittenburg, SMU's associate AD of development, University fundraiser of the year.
According to SMU Athletics, the department will be using a large portion of these funds for the Weber End Zone Complex, a 192,500-square-foot football operations center and club space, which is set to open for the 2024 season.
SMU will officially join the ACC on July 1, 2024.
Also on WFAA.com: