Welcome to Fundraising Friday: AB Today's weekly digest of recent developments in development.
Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Minn., announced last Saturday at its annual Cardinal Excellence Fund dinner that Hall of Fame two-sport inductee David Thies and his wife Marlys have committed $5.5 million to the university to largely support Cardinal athletics and scholarships. The gift includes a $2.5 million cash contribution and a $3 million estate gift. The largest portion of the gift, and the largest in the history of SMU athletics — $2.625 million — is designated for a complete remodel of the Winona Campus gymnasium, which will now be called the David R. Thies B’59 Arena. Thies went on to play Major League Baseball for the Kansas City Athletics. According to the Winona Post, construction will begin May 5 on the following enhancements: new bleachers, a refurbished floor, a concessions and ticket booth in the Hall of Fame room, an air handler and chiller for air conditioning, Saint Mary’s branding, and VIP bleacher and floor seating for 100.
Dale and Julie Burghardt have pledged $1 million to enhance the Burghardt Sports Complex, aiming to improve the playability for football, soccer, and community events such as graduation at Molalla (Ore.) High School. As reported by ABC affiliate KATU in Portland, the project, the estimated $2.7 million project requires an additional $800,000 from the community to complete the all-weather field and track resurfacing. Construction is slated to begin in June 2026, with the Oregon National Guard providing labor support for site preparation.
University of Northern Iowa alums Larry and Sue Pump have added their support behind the historic renovation of the UNI-Dome. The couple's $100,000 holds special meaning, according to the university's announcement Tuesday. The UNI-Dome played a significant role in the Pumps' decision to attend UNI, beginning with their experience at the first-ever event held in the stadium: a wrestling match between UNI and the University of Iowa. The Pumps' gift comes as work has begun on phase two of the modernization project, which is designed to elevate the fan experience inside the stadium. The project will bring new suites, upgraded restrooms and comprehensive UNI-Dome reseating designed to enhance accessibility and comfort, while incorporating the iconic Panther purple throughout the stadium.
Total amount of these gifts:
$3,725,000
Running total for 2025:
$269,898,500
Total amount tracked by AB Today in 2024:
$943,830,339
