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To ensure our student-athletes can compete effectively in the elite conference starting July 1, 2024, SMU has launched the $125 million ACC Competitiveness Campaign. Donor support will enable us to increase coaching and administrative staff, upgrade facilities and cover greater travel and one-time transition costs, so we start the next era of SMU Athletics from a position of strength.

The drive is part of the comprehensive SMU Ignited campaign and builds on the unprecedented $100 million given by 30 donors in seven days. During the current phase, donors are combining their five-year commitments into bundles that add up to $100,000, $250,000, $500,000, $1 million and more toward the remaining $25 million needed.

“We thank the more than 80 ACC Champions who have signed up to rally their networks to this cause – and the more than 150 donors they have inspired,” said R. Gerald Turner, SMU president. “The ACC Competitiveness Campaign is crucial to make sure we join the ACC as strongly as possible in all sports.”

The ACC Competitiveness Campaign has already reached 97% of its goal, with more than $120 million in commitments.

“We have felt the energy around the world among our support base,” said Brad E. Cheves, SMU vice president for Development and External Affairs. “We invite everyone to be a part of this campaign to make SMU competitive on day one of our entry into the ACC.”

The financial support of donors is critical for all 17 athletic programs to succeed against power conference-level schools. Investments enhance the student-athlete experience, provide valuable coaching and support, and enhance health and nutrition – all of which drive excellence on the field and in the classroom.

“The competitive excellence that we are accustomed to must continue as we move into the ACC,” said Rick Hart, SMU director of Athletics. “Donors who make an extra commitment during this once-in-a-lifetime moment will make the difference in the future achievements of our student-athletes and coaches.”

The ACC Competitiveness Campaign and the ongoing drive for the Garry Weber End Zone Complex add to the University’s investments in Athletics over the last 10 years that made the invitation to join the ACC possible – including $250 million in championship-caliber athletic facilities. Success in all 17 sports programs, the University’s academic excellence and the incredible strength of our donor base were all critical to differentiate SMU and make the compelling case that the University will strengthen the ACC, one of the best athletic conferences in the nation.

Donors to the ACC Competitiveness Campaign will be invited to participate in exclusive events in the coming years. ACC Champions who recruit others to bundle commitments that reach certain giving thresholds will unlock additional benefits.

To get involved, . For more information about supporting the campaign, contact Joshua Whittenburg, associate athletics director for development, at jwhittenburg@smu.edu or 214-768-3315.