Middle Tennessee State University Athletics
Blue Raiders kick off 2025-26 with annual Donor Celebration
8/25/2025 11:16:00 AM | BRAA
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (August 25, 2025) – The Blue Raider Athletic Association (BRAA) hosted its annual Donor Celebration on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Hollingshead Aviation in Smyrna—the third consecutive year the event has been held at the venue. The event celebrated the loyalty and generosity of BRAA members who continue to support MTSU Athletics and Blue Raider student-athletes at an impressive level.
The evening recognized donors and groups including the BRAA Board of Directors, new members, and the Sapphire Circle for the impact they made on the athletics department during the 2024-25 athletic season and membership year.
"The BRAA Donor Celebration is always a great way to kick off the new season", said Deputy Athletic Director, Lee De Leon. "We cannot express our gratitude to all our generous members enough, but I hope this event makes them feel celebrated and appreciated every year as we reflect on their incredible support and massive impact on our department."
Dr. David McKnight is once again serving as the BRAA Board President for the 2025-26 season and was on stage throughout the night, handing out awards and celebrating the accomplishments of MTSU Athletics. "The BRAA Board and I loved seeing so many of our members at the 2025 Donor Celebration in Smyrna," said McKnight. "The 2024-25 season was another great one, in large part due to the annual gifts, major gifts, and premium seating purchases of our BRAA members who continue to step up and support our Blue Raider student-athletes."
The 2024-25 BRAA award winners included:
• Liz Rhea Member of the Year – Wayne Groce
• Jeff Hendrix Businessperson of the Year – Jonathon McGuire (McGuire Management)
• Roxie McHenry Loyalty Award – Diane Turnham
• Doug Young Impact Award – Benny Cunningham
• Bill and Theresa Ketron Lifetime Leadership Award – Larry Kirk
Click HERE to see the photo gallery from the 2025 Donor Celebration.
The Blue Raider Athletic Association was founded in 1987 and is committed to providing the critical resources needed for Blue Raiders to excel academically, athletically, and in our community. Their mission is to build relationships, invest in excellence, and develop champions.
The BRAA finished the 2024-25 season with 1,186 members. Membership starts at just $100 annually and includes exclusive benefits. For more information about the BRAA and the benefits that come with membership, please visit www.MTSUBRAA.com.
The evening recognized donors and groups including the BRAA Board of Directors, new members, and the Sapphire Circle for the impact they made on the athletics department during the 2024-25 athletic season and membership year.
"The BRAA Donor Celebration is always a great way to kick off the new season", said Deputy Athletic Director, Lee De Leon. "We cannot express our gratitude to all our generous members enough, but I hope this event makes them feel celebrated and appreciated every year as we reflect on their incredible support and massive impact on our department."
Dr. David McKnight is once again serving as the BRAA Board President for the 2025-26 season and was on stage throughout the night, handing out awards and celebrating the accomplishments of MTSU Athletics. "The BRAA Board and I loved seeing so many of our members at the 2025 Donor Celebration in Smyrna," said McKnight. "The 2024-25 season was another great one, in large part due to the annual gifts, major gifts, and premium seating purchases of our BRAA members who continue to step up and support our Blue Raider student-athletes."
The 2024-25 BRAA award winners included:
• Liz Rhea Member of the Year – Wayne Groce
• Jeff Hendrix Businessperson of the Year – Jonathon McGuire (McGuire Management)
• Roxie McHenry Loyalty Award – Diane Turnham
• Doug Young Impact Award – Benny Cunningham
• Bill and Theresa Ketron Lifetime Leadership Award – Larry Kirk
Click HERE to see the photo gallery from the 2025 Donor Celebration.
The Blue Raider Athletic Association was founded in 1987 and is committed to providing the critical resources needed for Blue Raiders to excel academically, athletically, and in our community. Their mission is to build relationships, invest in excellence, and develop champions.
The BRAA finished the 2024-25 season with 1,186 members. Membership starts at just $100 annually and includes exclusive benefits. For more information about the BRAA and the benefits that come with membership, please visit www.MTSUBRAA.com.
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