Wayne State Athletics Concludes Successful Year of Fundraising

DETROIT -- Wayne State University Athletics is proud to announce a landmark year for the department, marked by remarkable growth in fundraising efforts and community engagement. During the 2024 fiscal year, WSU Athletics Development achieved a 51 percent increase in dollars raised compared to fiscal year 2023, alongside an impressive 65 percent increase in the number of gifts received.

This record-setting year was driven by the introduction of three new signature events: National Girls & Women in Sports Day in February, the football bowling fundraiser, and the Champions Classic Golf Outing. Additionally, the department revitalized key initiatives, including the W-Club Membership, the cross country/track & field Run-A-Thon, and the softball and baseball home run derbies. These events not only brought new energy to the department's fundraising strategies but also strengthened connections with alumni, fans, and supporters. The athletics alumni area played a pivotal role in fostering community spirit and engagement through several events, including Men's and Women's Basketball Alumni Days, the Homecoming Alumni Mixer, the Swimming and Diving Alumni Meet, the Fencing Alumni Meet, Baseball Alumni Day, and the Softball Mixer on the Mound. These gatherings celebrated the rich history of WSU Athletics while reinforcing the bond between past and present Warriors.

Adding to the department's accomplishments, the Warrior Village initiative was successfully launched during the football season, creating a dynamic space for fans and alumni to connect. The Welcome Back Block Party further enhanced the sense of community, welcoming WSU students to a vibrant and engaging athletic culture.

Combined with increased sponsorship revenue, these efforts resulted in a 36 percent overall revenue increase compared to fiscal year 2023.

"At Wayne State Athletics, we are committed to building a stronger foundation for our student-athletes, alumni, and community," said Erika Wallace, Wayne State University Director of Athletics. "The remarkable growth in dollars raised and gifts received this year reflects not only the hard work of our teams and supporters but also the momentum we are generating together. Through innovative events like the National Girls & Women in Sports Day and Champions Classic Golf Outing, and reimagined traditions like our home run derbies and alumni gatherings, we are forging new paths of engagement and support. The Warrior Village and the Welcome Back Block Party are just the beginning of our vision to create vibrant, enduring connections that empower our programs for years to come. This is only the start of something special, and we look forward to building on this success as we move forward."

As 2024 comes to a close, WSU Athletics extends its gratitude to all supporters, alumni, and sponsors who contributed to this year's successes. Together, we are creating a future that will continue to elevate Wayne State Athletics to new heights.

PRESS RELEASES LINKS
Football Bowling Fundraiser
W-Club Membership Campaign
2024 Champions Classic Recap Video
2024 Champions Classic Recap Graphic
2024 Cross Country/Track & Field Run-A-Thon Recap
2024 Baseball Home Run Derby Recap
2024 Softball Home Run Derby Recap

Announcement of partnership with Ilitch Sports & Entertainment

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