Murray State Athletics Shatters Fundraising Record with $21.5 Million Raised in 2024

Murray State Athletics set another major fundraising milestone in 2024, raising more than $21.5 million in total donations, pledges and NIL, it was announced on Monday afternoon. The total raised stands as the largest one-year fundraising total in University history.

The unprecedented fundraising success was achieved behind a record eight, seven figure commitments, the most such gifts in school history in a single year.

One noteworthy gift came from David & Ashley Dill, who committed a record-breaking, seven-figure gift that stands as the largest single gift in University history. The investment served as a lead gift to help move forward that highly-anticipated renovation of the CFSB Center.

"We are incredibly fortunate to have loyal investors who believe in our shared vision for excellence and have helped us achieve this historic fundraising year," Director of Athletics Nico Yantko said. "Since my arrival in 2022, Racer Nation has been transformational and has propelled our vision forward. Every person matters and every dollar counts, so we are truly grateful for each one of our donors for their support of our more than 430 student-athletes, coaches, and staff. We are excited for what the future holds as a result of this record-breaking success."

In total, Murray State received a record 29 major gifts from its generous investors and supporters in 2024 that will continue to have a major impact on the department's plans as it prepares for a new reality of intercollegiate athletics and for future facility projects as a part of the department's continued prioritization of recruiting and revenue opportunities.

The total productivity in 2024 included the record-breaking major gifts, annual giving, and other vital resource acquisitions that have supported Racer Athletics.

As a result of the unprecedented fundraising success and strategic resource allocation driven by Yantko's vision for excellence, the Racers are preparing for all possibilities in the new world of intercollegiate athletics while continuing to prioritize investing in championship resources. Learn more about the department's investments into its sports programs by reading about its strategic priorities in "THE RACE IS ON".

Murray State has seen tremendous growth around its facilities, with more than several million dollars' worth of capital projects currently underway and having recently announced its plans for a massive, eight-figure renovation to the CFSB Center for the first time since the building opened in 1998.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE about the exciting new vision for the home of Racer Basketball.

Other projects that have been completed over the last two years include the newly announced weight room renovation in Roy Stewart Stadium, the renovation of the men's basketball locker room, the Baseball/Softball Performance Center, upgrades to football team spaces and the new LED lights in the CFSB Center.

The Racer Club plays a crucial role in helping support student-athlete scholarships, general operating budget, and facility enhancements. Investors play a critical role in funding the student-athlete experience and the competitive success of Murray State Athletics programs and student-athletes.

For more information on how to join the Racer Club, call (270) 809-3517 or click HERE.

Follow the Racers on X (@MSURacers), Instagram (@RacersAthletics) and Facebook to stay up-to-date on all that is happening with Murray State Athletics.

Murray State University

Murray State Athletics Shatters Fundraising Record with $21.5 Million Raised in 2024

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