University of North Carolina Ashville Athletics
Bulldog Athletics Posts Record-Setting Fundraising Year
07.17.2023 | General, Athletics News
ASHEVILLE, N.C. - UNC Asheville Athletics has announced a record-breaking fundraising year totaling over $5.1 million in philanthropic, athletic-related gifts and pledges in 2022-23. In addition to this total, a $1.5 million grant was secured from the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority to help renovate the Karl Straus Track facility.
"We are incredibly appreciative of so many Bulldog friends who not only share our vision of "Dreaming Bigger and Achieving More" but who also invest their funds to help position our programs for even greater future success," said Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone. "We do not take these gifts for granted and are forever grateful for the support of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff."
Highlights of Bulldog Athletics' fundraising in 2022-23 include:Â
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Athletic giving increased over 95% from 2021-22
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Over $2.4 million in total cash gifts, up 111% from last year
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Number of donors making gifts to the Bulldog Athletics Association increased by 33% from last year
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$1 million dollar challenge gift, with half of the gift supporting men's basketball and the other half supporting areas of greatest need within the athletic department
"I would like to say a big THANK YOU to our generous donors who continually go above and beyond in supporting our Bulldogs as they continue to excel in the classroom, on the field, and in the community," added Associate Athletic Director for External Operations David Jandrew. "Our passionate fans, alumni, and friends have made these record numbers possible and our entire development team is grateful for the continued support."
Donations to the Bulldog Athletics Association (BAA) impact UNC Asheville student-athletes through scholarships, academic support, funding multiple capital improvement projects, mental health programming, and much more. Facility projects currently underway as part of the "ALL IN" campaign include renovation to the Karl Straus Track, enhancements to the soccer and baseball facilities, a new video board in Justice Gym for volleyball, a new scoreboard for the swim and dive program, and plans for a new on-campus tennis facility.
Annual membership in the BAA remains the most fundamental way to support Bulldog student-athletes, with the annual fund supporting UNC Asheville Athletics' $2.65 million scholarship bill. In addition to supporting student-athlete scholarships, BAA members that give at designated levels enjoy a host of great benefits including basketball hospitality and reserved parking, named annual athletic scholarships, invitations to exclusive events throughout the year, and more.
 "We look forward to continuing this momentum in the coming year as we complete the track renovation while turning our attention to improving our soccer and baseball facilities and also bringing tennis back on campus," said Associate Athletic Director for Leadership Gifts Aaron Bessey. "Thank you to our incredible donors for making all of this exciting progress possible!"
About the Bulldog Athletics Association (BAA):
The Bulldog Athletics Association is a vital resource that allows UNC Asheville student-athletes to pursue their academic, athletic, and lifelong goals. More than 75% of our Bulldogs rely on scholarship support from this fund to continue their education at UNC Asheville.
To make a gift today in support of Bulldog Athletics, please visit www.uncabulldogs.com/give.
