Memphis Athletics Breaks Record with $35M Fundraising Year

When a university breaks its own fundraising record two years in a row, it says something powerful about the community rallying behind it.

The University of Memphis athletics department announced it raised $35.3 million during the 2025-2026 fiscal year, beating last year's record by 9%. More than 5,500 donors contributed to the Tiger Nation effort, from recent graduates making their first $25 gift to longtime supporters pledging over $1 million.

The momentum is building toward something bigger. The fundraising brought Memphis Athletics to $42.15 million of the $50 million Smith Family Match Challenge, which supports the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium renovation project.

Nine donors made principal gifts of $1 million or more, and 22 others contributed leadership gifts ranging from $100,000 to $500,000. These numbers put Memphis among the top fundraising programs in the Group of Six conferences, competing with schools in the ACC, Big Ten, and Big 12.

The money isn't just about new buildings. Donors supported all 19 varsity sports programs, plus the Cheer, Dance, and Pom squads, ensuring every student athlete benefits from the investment.

The Ripple Effect

Three major facility projects are now fully or nearly funded, totaling nearly $223 million. The Liza Wellford Fletcher project secured its full $8.3 million and breaks ground this fall. The Rhodes-Hanson Academic Center raised its complete $3.1 million goal and is already under construction, opening in January 2027.

Director of Athletics Ed Scott emphasized that every gift strengthens the entire program. The investments help provide championship-level experiences, support academic success, and position Memphis to compete at the highest levels of college athletics.

Cooper Jones, Deputy Athletics Director and Chief Revenue Officer, celebrated the breadth of support. Whether someone gave $25 or $1 million, each contribution mattered in reaching this milestone.

The record-breaking year shows what happens when a community believes in investing in young people and their futures, one gift at a time.