Middle Tennesee State University Athletics
BRAA has second consecutive record-breaking year
8/9/2023 3:00:00 PM | General, BRAA
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Middle Tennessee State University's Blue Raider Athletic Association (BRAA) raised almost $23 million in donations in 2022-23, marking the second consecutive year of record-breaking support from alumni, community members, and fans, officials announced Wednesday.
Donors contributed $22.85 million in total cash and commitments, including major gift pledges and documented planned gifts, for Athletics during the last fiscal year, making it the highest fundraising total ever for the BRAA.
"The success of this fundraising year is a steppingstone to a future filled with exciting possibilities for not only our Athletics program, but the entire university," said President Sidney A. McPhee. "We are building state-of-the-art facilities that will not only improve the experience of our student-athletes but enhance our campus and attract even more tourism spending in our community."
Major gift pledges and planned gifts designated for MTSU Athletics soared to unprecedented heights, totaling $19 million. This was made possible in large part due to the launch of the BRAA's exclusive major gifts society, the Sapphire Circle, in January.
"This achievement is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our supporters, who share our passion for advancing athletic excellence for Blue Raider student-athletes," said Chris Massaro, Director of Athletics. "The support and generosity of our donors have not only surpassed recent years but have also inspired us to strive for even greater heights."
In addition, the BRAA's Champions Annual Fund, the top fundraising priority for Athletics, witnessed an outpouring of support from the Blue Raider faithful, resulting in more than $1.25 million, a 14% growth from the previous year.
"On behalf of the BRAA team, I want to express our deepest gratitude to the MTSU community and every individual who contributed to this record-setting fundraising year," said Hans C. Malebranche, associate director of athletics.
"Resources drive what's possible and, thanks to BRAA members, we can provide our coaches and student-athletes with what they need to compete for and win championships. Make no mistake, while we have made significant progress, there is still more work to be done. The best is yet to come!"
Donors have a variety of ways they can support MTSU Athletics. All individuals that donate to any area of the Blue Raider Athletic Association at the $100 level or higher each year are considered members of the BRAA and are entitled to exclusive membership benefits. Complete details of donor options can be found on GoBlueRaiders.com/BRAA.
Fans interested in becoming a member of the BRAA can do so by clicking here. All gifts directly impact the experience for Blue Raider student-athletes in the classroom and in competition.
About the Blue Raider Athletic Association:
The Blue Raider Athletic Association (BRAA) is the official fundraising arm of MTSU Athletics with a mission of Building Relationships. Investing in Excellence. Developing Champions. The BRAA is an organization made up of Blue Raider fans who believe in the importance of generously providing donations to support enhanced academic and athletic opportunities for MTSU student-athletes.
Donors contributed $22.85 million in total cash and commitments, including major gift pledges and documented planned gifts, for Athletics during the last fiscal year, making it the highest fundraising total ever for the BRAA.
"The success of this fundraising year is a steppingstone to a future filled with exciting possibilities for not only our Athletics program, but the entire university," said President Sidney A. McPhee. "We are building state-of-the-art facilities that will not only improve the experience of our student-athletes but enhance our campus and attract even more tourism spending in our community."
Major gift pledges and planned gifts designated for MTSU Athletics soared to unprecedented heights, totaling $19 million. This was made possible in large part due to the launch of the BRAA's exclusive major gifts society, the Sapphire Circle, in January.
"This achievement is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our supporters, who share our passion for advancing athletic excellence for Blue Raider student-athletes," said Chris Massaro, Director of Athletics. "The support and generosity of our donors have not only surpassed recent years but have also inspired us to strive for even greater heights."
In addition, the BRAA's Champions Annual Fund, the top fundraising priority for Athletics, witnessed an outpouring of support from the Blue Raider faithful, resulting in more than $1.25 million, a 14% growth from the previous year.
"On behalf of the BRAA team, I want to express our deepest gratitude to the MTSU community and every individual who contributed to this record-setting fundraising year," said Hans C. Malebranche, associate director of athletics.
"Resources drive what's possible and, thanks to BRAA members, we can provide our coaches and student-athletes with what they need to compete for and win championships. Make no mistake, while we have made significant progress, there is still more work to be done. The best is yet to come!"
Donors have a variety of ways they can support MTSU Athletics. All individuals that donate to any area of the Blue Raider Athletic Association at the $100 level or higher each year are considered members of the BRAA and are entitled to exclusive membership benefits. Complete details of donor options can be found on GoBlueRaiders.com/BRAA.
Fans interested in becoming a member of the BRAA can do so by clicking here. All gifts directly impact the experience for Blue Raider student-athletes in the classroom and in competition.
About the Blue Raider Athletic Association:
The Blue Raider Athletic Association (BRAA) is the official fundraising arm of MTSU Athletics with a mission of Building Relationships. Investing in Excellence. Developing Champions. The BRAA is an organization made up of Blue Raider fans who believe in the importance of generously providing donations to support enhanced academic and athletic opportunities for MTSU student-athletes.
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