General | November 2
DeKALB, Ill. – Huskies Invest: A Week of Giving, Northern Illinois University Athletics' annual fall fundraising campaign, raised a record $1,162,865 in support of Huskie student-athletes, programs and projects, NIU Vice President and Director of Athletics & Recreation Sean T. Frazier announced Wednesday. Thanks to the generous contributions of NIU donors, this year's Week of Giving, held from October 23-27, saw 455 gifts push this year's Huskies Invest total over the $1 million mark for the third consecutive year.
"This year's goal was the most ambitious yet for Huskies Invest, and we are so grateful to everyone who contributed to push us past that goal for another record-setting Week of Giving," Frazier said. "On behalf of our coaches and student-athletes, thank you!"
During Huskies Invest, supporters were able to direct their donations to 31 different efforts, from individual sports programs to spirit group budgets and facility projects, including upgrades to the basketball locker rooms and softball dugouts, Walt & Janice Owens Baseball Park and more. Overall, the 2023 Week of Giving resulted in a 10 percent increase in dollars raised and a 27 percent increase in participation. Seven sports programs saw an increase in the amount raised for their programs during Huskies Invest compared to last year.
In addition, the 2023 Week of Giving featured several matching gift challenges which accounted for nearly $50,000 in bonus funds from a number of generous donors supporting multiple sports programs and facility projects. Huskies Invest coincided with the launch of plans for the 1899 Club, a multi-use facility that will enhance nutritional services for student-athletes. Thanks to the generosity of some great Huskies during the Week of Giving, NIU Athletics is set to move forward with fundraising efforts for the approximately $4 million facility.
"Thanks to the success of our seventh annual Week of Giving, we are excited to continue to move NIU Athletics forward in many ways that will benefit NIU student-athletes today and in the future," Frazier said. "The 'investment' our donors and supporters have made makes all the difference for Huskie student-athletes. I am incredibly appreciative of everyone who stepped up to make this year's Huskies Invest a huge success."
To learn more about the Huskie Athletic Fund and additional ways to support NIU Athletics throughout the year, go to HuskieAthleticFund.com or call 815-753-1923, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
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