East Michigan News

The Eastern Michigan University (EMU) Department of Athletics announced today, Aug. 21, that it has broken another all-time fundraising record for fiscal year 2024 (July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024). This achievement continues a multi-year trend of increasing development efforts.

EMU Athletics raised over $14.5 million in pledges and commitments through the support of alumni, fans, and friends. This new milestone surpasses the previous record of $9.8 million set in Fiscal Year 2020. Contributions were directed towards various areas such as the Eastern Athletic Fund, sport-specific crowdfunding initiatives, capital projects, and legacy giving, supporting over 500 student-athletes representing EMU.

"On behalf of Eastern Michigan Athletics, I would like to extend our deep gratitude to our incredible group of supporters," said Vice President and Director of Athletics Scott Wetherbee. "Our department is committed to providing a world-class experience for our student-athletes in the classroom, in the community, and in competition. This commitment is made possible by the remarkable generosity of our donors who enable us to compete at the highest levels year-round."

"This year's unprecedented success in fundraising reflects the unwavering commitment of our donors, alumni, and supporters," said Dan McLean, EMU Senior Associate AD for Development. "Their generosity not only strengthens our programs but also enhances the experience of our student-athletes in meaningful ways. Every gift, large or small, plays a crucial role in our mission to develop champions both on and off the field. We are profoundly grateful for their continued dedication to Eastern Michigan Athletics."

The second phase of the Championship Building Plan was launched in 2023-24 and included resurfacing football's Rynearson Stadium and removing the existing track; building a new outdoor track & field complex; and upgrading baseball's Oestrike Stadium. Key contributions included a $2.5 million donation from Regent Emeritus Phil Incarnati for the Incarnati Athletic Center; a $1 million contribution from Maxx & Rachel Crosby for Crosby Field; and a $2 million pledge from Keith Moore & Dan McClory for the new outdoor track & field complex.

A significant commitment from GameAbove topped off this year’s efforts with up to $7 million pledged towards future seasons for men's and women's golf programs.

These landmark contributions are vital to EMU Athletics' ongoing success by providing state-of-the-art facilities and resources benefiting current and future student-athletes. Since Wetherbee's arrival in Ypsilanti in 2017-18, Eastern Michigan has secured more than $36 million in cash and pledges.

For more information on how to contribute to EMU Athletics' continued success through the Eastern Athletic Fund, please visit EasternAthleticFund.com.

Founded in 1849, Eastern Michigan University is one of Michigan’s oldest public universities serving over 13,000 students across various disciplines through its Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; along with its graduate school.

Eastern Michigan University has been part of the Mid-American Conference since 1971 with notable achievements including winning more MAC team championships than any other member during this period.