SMU Athletics has successfully surpassed its $125 million fundraising goal for the ACC Competitiveness Campaign, which aims to strengthen the university’s athletic programs as it transitions to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). The campaign raised over $159 million in fiscal year 2024 due to significant donations from alumni and supporters, including a pivotal $2 million commitment from Matthew H. Fleeger and the Fleeger Family Foundation.
The campaign launched in September following SMU’s announcement of its upcoming ACC move and focused on securing resources for enhanced competitiveness at the highest collegiate levels. Fleeger’s generous contribution helped fund the Weber End Zone Complex and filled the remaining gap in reaching the campaign’s goal.
“We are deeply grateful to Matthew H. Fleeger and the Fleeger Family Foundation for their extraordinary generosity,” said Rick Hart, SMU’s Director of Athletics. Fleeger’s donation not only pushed SMU past its target but also enhanced its facilities, putting SMU in a strong position for success in the ACC.
This achievement reflects the collective effort of SMU alumni, donors, and supporters, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring student-athletes can perform at the top levels. Fleeger said, “There’s never been a better time to be a Mustang, and I’m proud to support our transition to the ACC.”
Despite reaching its goal, SMU Athletics continues to seek philanthropic support to maintain momentum for its upcoming debut season in the ACC. The department also set a new record for season ticket sales at Ford Stadium, doubling the number of tickets sold for the 2024-25 season as the excitement builds for this new era in SMU sports.
As part of the Game Changer program, SMU encourages fans to help spread the word and sell season tickets within their networks to continue the momentum and fill Ford Stadium for the fall season.