FAIRFAX, Va. – George Mason Athletics announced a historic year of philanthropic success, highlighted by record-breaking fundraising totals, unprecedented donor participation, and continued growth of the Patriot Club.

Over the past fiscal year, George Mason Athletics raised a record $4.4 million, the highest fundraising total in department history, topping last year's record $3.0 million. The milestone represents a significant investment in the future of George Mason Athletics, providing critical resources that enhance the student-athlete experience, strengthen competitive excellence, and position the department for long-term success.

"Our success is built on the incredible generosity of our alumni, donors, fans, and friends," said Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics, Marvin Lewis. "Achieving a second consecutive year of record-breaking fundraising and nearly 50 percent growth in Patriot Club membership are powerful reflections of the belief our supporters have in the future of George Mason Athletics. Surpassing last year's historic total demonstrates the growing momentum behind our mission and the continued strength of NOVA's Team. Together, we are creating transformational opportunities for our student-athletes, elevating the George Mason experience, and positioning our programs for sustained success for years to come."

The year's fundraising efforts were punctuated by a historic George Mason Giving Day in April, when more than 1,200 supporters came together to contribute $2,057,632 in just 24 hours. The total marked the largest single-day fundraising effort in George Mason Athletics history and showcased the collective power of the university community. This philanthropic momentum also contributes to Mason Now: Power the Possible, the university's $1 billion comprehensive campaign to expand student opportunity, strengthen academic and research programs, and address complex challenges facing communities in Virginia and beyond.

The department also experienced tremendous growth in the Patriot Club, with membership increasing from 622 to 926 members, a 48.9 percent increase over the previous year. The expansion of the Patriot Club reflects a growing base of supporters committed to providing transformational opportunities for George Mason student-athletes.

Donor support continues to fuel several key initiatives that directly impact student-athlete success across all 22 varsity programs. These initiatives include:

• Basketball Greatness – Advancing championship-level resources for George Mason men's and women's basketball programs through investments in facilities, recruiting, player development, and competitive excellence.
• Athletics Opportunity Fund – Providing flexible resources that address the department's greatest needs while enhancing the overall student-athlete experience.
• Patriot Pathways – Supporting career development, leadership programming, internships, networking opportunities, and life skills initiatives that prepare student-athletes for success beyond graduation.
• Sports Performance Ecosystem – Investing in cutting-edge strength and conditioning, sports medicine, nutrition, mental performance, and recovery resources that allow Patriots to perform at their highest level.

The record-breaking fundraising year comes during a period of significant momentum for George Mason Athletics. Philanthropic investments continue to play a vital role in strengthening the department's ability to recruit, develop, and support more than 500 student-athletes while enhancing the overall competitive experience.
Learn how you can support George Mason student-athletes and explore giving opportunities through the Patriot Club.