OU athletics announced Friday a record-breaking fiscal year, acquiring $241 million in gifts and commitments during FY26 (July 1-June 30).
The $241 million in FY26 marks the largest fundraising year in department history, more than double the previous record established last year, according to OU Athletic Communications. The department's four largest fundraising years have all come in the past five years. Donors contributed $113 million in FY25, $110 million in FY24 and $109 million in FY22.
Flourish chart displaying FY increase.
OU athletics have a record 23,693 Sooner Club 23,693 members, producing several accomplishments during FY26 including:
• Single-year record 5,580 new Sooner Club members
• An increase in the average gift amount from approximately $4,000 in FY25 to $13,000 in FY26
• Record $37.2 million raised for the Inspiring Champions Fund, , which supports the academic, athletic and personal development of OU student-athletes
• A fifth consecutive year of voluntary giving exceeding required seat donations
• A 35% year-over-year increase in cash donations received, reaching $107.9 million
• A 67% increase in six-figure commitments along with a record 38 seven-figure commitments
• Sixty nine new members in The 1895 Trust, a membership society recognizing those who have made philanthropic commitments aimed at elevating the student-athlete experience.
Athletic director Roger Denny shared his excitement in a statement.
“This past year’s fundraising success is yet another marker of the tremendous momentum we are seeing throughout Oklahoma Athletics,” OU athletic director Roger Denny wrote. “Because of the support of our donors, we’ve not just set a record — we’ve shattered one. To enjoy this kind of sustained generosity is unprecedented, and it says everything about the strength of our university, the passion of Sooner Nation, and the confidence our supporters have in where we're headed."
The donations helped in the development of various OU athletics' projects, including the naming of Kimrey Family Stadium and enhancements, changes to the Jerry J. Ransom Golf Performance Center, renovations at the Wadley Indoor Tennis Pavilion at Headington Family Tennis Center and transforming the Sam Viersen Gymnastics Center.
