University of Wyoming Athletics shattered its annual fundraising record in the 2015-16 fiscal year as donors to Cowboy and Cowgirl Athletics contributed $20.4 million for the most recent fiscal year concluded on June 30.  Over 4,500 donors contributed to the UW Athletics annual fund, as well as to capital projects, with over 500 additional individuals contributing through special fundraising events held this past year.

      The previous fundraising record for Wyoming Athletics was $12.8 million, and was set in the 2013-14 fiscal year.

      “During my time at UW, it never ceases to amaze me how loyal our fans are to the Cowboy Joe Club and to supporting the needs of our student-athletes,” said Tom Burman, Director of Athletics.  “Our donors have always been willing to step forward and support the vision we have to make Wyoming Athletics great.  Whether that be through annual contributions to support scholarships for our student-athletes or for the many capital construction projects that we’ve completed over the years, our donors are always there to generously provide support for the young men and women who represent our university and our state as UW student-athletes.

      “Part of this year’s gifts went to help fund the Mick and Susie McMurry High Altitude Performance Center.  We are closing in on completion of fundraising for this magnificent new building, which will create a world-class training facility for all of our 400 student-athletes.”

      The High Altitude Performance Center will be a $44 million project, funded by $24 million in private donations and $20 million in matching funds established by the Wyoming State Legislature and Governor Matt Mead.  The Mick and Susie McMurry High Altitude Performance Center is scheduled to begin construction later this year.

      There have been eight gifts of $1 million or more donated to help fund the McMurry High Altitude Performance Center.  Those donors will be recognized with a ground-breaking ceremony this fall prior to a Cowboy home football game.

      “We couldn’t be more appreciative of our incredibly generous donors this past year,” said Randy Welniak, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Development and Revenue Enhancement.  “Despite the economic challenges around our state, our members have responded positively to the State of Wyoming match with both the High Altitude Performance Center campaign, as well as the Cowboy Joe Club annual fund.”

      In addition to annual giving and donations to capital projects made to UW Athletics this past year, financial contributions made through a number of Cowboy Joe Club special events are also included in the record-setting total.  Among the special fundraising events held throughout the past fiscal year were: the Annual Cowboy Joe Club Auction, sponsored by Infinity Power and Controls; the Cowboy Joe Club Golf Series presented by Ford; and the Annual Online Auction.