June 29, 2009

MEMPHIS, TENN. - University of Memphis Athletic Director R.C. Johnson announced that donations to Tiger Athletics reached an all-time high of $7 million, surpassing last year's record amount of $6 million. This is the fourth consecutive year that more than $5 million has been collected by Tiger Athletics, and the 11th-straight year of an increase in donations to the department.

The Tiger Scholarship Fund is the athletic department organization charged with raising scholarship dollars for U of M student-athletes. Monies raised by the Tiger Scholarship Fund are used to offset the cost of scholarships for the over 350 Tiger student-athletes.

"There are a lot of people who helped us reach this substantial benchmark in donations, but I especially want to extend my appreciation to Alan Graf, the Tiger Scholarship Advisory Board President, Mike Rose, the chair of the Athletic Advisors Committee, as well as to Bill Lansden and his staff," said Johnson. "During these economic times, this is a great accomplishment. We appreciate all of our fans and supporters who have continued to pledge their support of the Tigers."

In 1996, the Memphis athletic department received donations of less than $1 million annually. A fund-raising goal was set to increase annual giving to $5 million. That figure has been surpassed for four consecutive years but must continue to increase in order to keep pace with the rising cost of higher education.

Additionally, Johnson announced the Ambassador Club, which started in 1997 with just two members, has reached an all-time high of 37 members. Each Ambassador pledges a donation of $500,000 to Tiger Athletics.

"The Ambassador Club has been such a successful program because of dedicated supporters who have helped us to continue to grow our membership," said Johnson.

"Of course, this is also a tribute to all the coaches and staff who made it possible for people to believe in the Tigers," added Johnson. "It is a great time to be a Tiger!"