Another Record-Setting Fundraising Year Closes for Georgia Southern Athletic Foundation in FY23

The Georgia Southern Athletic Foundation, in conjunction with the Department of Athletics, announced record-setting fundraising numbers for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. The books have officially closed on the third full fiscal year for Georgia Southern Athletics under Athletic Director Jared Benko, and for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023 (FY23), the Georgia Southern Athletic Foundation raised a record $11.06 million in new pledges and outright gifts.

This year saw the Athletic Foundation Giving Societies experience tremendous growth through philanthropic leadership among the Georgia Southern community, gaining 24 new members. Notably, Rotary Corporation, run by the Nelson Family, committed a gift tied for the largest in department history. 

“We are humbled and very appreciative of Eagle Nation’s continued support of our 430+ student-athletes,” said Georgia Southern Director of Athletics Jared Benko. “I want to thank all of our supporters who continue to raise the bar for the third consecutive year by investing in our vision of ‘Soaring to New Heights.’ Our best days are ahead!”

“We cannot thank Eagle Nation enough for another incredible fundraising year,” said Davis Hendrickson, Deputy Athletic Director for Development. “The generosity of our donors is truly inspirational. Celebrating this remarkable achievement and its impact on our student-athletes’ lives is an honor. We are grateful for the outstanding leadership of the university, athletic department, and the Athletic Foundation Board.”   

The Erk Russell Fund, the Athletic Foundation’s annual fund, continues to grow and saw donations of $3.2 this fiscal year. Additionally, the Athletic Foundation received 58 major gift commitments this year, which are gift commitments of $25,000 or greater to support Eagle Athletics. 

Over the past three fiscal years, the Athletic Foundation has raised over $27,000,000 in support of Georgia Southern Athletics. This total is the largest three-year fundraising window in department history.

Donations to the Georgia Southern Athletic Foundation provide Eagle student-athletes with the resources they need to excel in the classroom and on the playing fields. While FY23 has ended, the Athletic Foundation continues to work on securing pledges and donations in support of Georgia Southern Athletics. To learn more or donate, please visit SoarAboveAll.com.