Omaha Athletics Development had a record-breaking 1,704 donors contribute more than $2.2 million dollars to support Maverick student-athletes in 2022-23.

The $2.2+ million in funding secured this past year represents an all-time high for annual dollars to the department. This mark was a 51.5 percent increase in dollars raised from the previous year and a 240 percent increase from annual dollars in the 2020-21 year.

"Our entire department is thankful to our donors for their generous philanthropic support this past year," said Adrian Dowell, Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics. "The evolving landscape of Division I Athletics has magnified the importance of donor support, and Maverick supporters absolutely answered the call. Because of the steady generosity of our fanbase, we have been able to proactively navigate industry changes and provide our student-athletes with unprecedented holistic support."

Since Dowell started in December of 2021, fundraising has elevated across the board for the department. This past year saw philanthropic support allow the department to successfully navigate enhanced Division I standards. Included in these new services is the creation of mental health and performance units. Private dollars helped drive the additions of mental health professionals, as well as a certified Sports Nutritionist to supplement new funding available for team nutritional support.

The 2022-23 donor count of 1,704 marked a 43.6 percent increase from the prior year. That 2021-22 total of 1,186 had also set the previous standard for annual donors. This most recent year generated 982 new donors to Omaha Athletics, which nearly matches the previous three years combined for newly acquired donors.

One of the main driving forces behind this donor growth is Wear Black Give Back in October. The campus-wide giving day continued to be a cornerstone event for Omaha Athletics Development as 860 gifts generated $129,631 for the Mavericks. Both figures were also new standards for the department on their annual giving day event.

Omaha Athletics relies on donations through the One Fund to supplement the experience of over 300 Maverick student-athletes among 16 sport programs. Funds supported through contribution assist with academics, competitive excellence, holistic student-athlete support, scholarships, and enhanced operational support for sport programs.