WASHINGTON - The 2021 Founders Day Challenge is over and done, and the results are outstanding. After the dust settled and the gifts were counted, American University Athletics is excited to announce its most successful Founders Day yet both in terms of money raised and number of donors.

Our dedicated alumni, parents, friends, staff, and students came together and contributed more than $140,000 this year compared to about $80,000 last year. We had over 145 donors give this year, a 24% increase from Founders Day 2020.

"I'm incredibly thankful for our alumni, parents, staff, and friends of AU Athletics who stepped up and gave during Founders Day this year, said Director of Athletics & Recreation Dr. Billy Walker. "Despite the challenges facing our department, Founders Day this year was by far our most successful to date. The funds raised will help our student-athletes excel at the highest levels both in and out of the classroom. Whether it is academic excellence, competitive success, or developing future leaders, our student-athletes are able to thrive in all these areas because of support from donors like you!"

There was even a little friendly rivalry between some head coaches. The women's soccer and track and cross country teams were going back and forth as the two most successful teams in money raised and number of donors. Ultimately, with the help of a $25,000 gift from AU track alum David Legge and his wife, Becky, head coach Sean Graham took the gold this Founders Day.
 

"Last year, Marsha and her program raised more than we did and she did not shy away from reminding me, so I was excited this year to come out victorious," said Graham. "I'm glad Marsha and myself have so many dedicated alumni, parents, and friends excited to support our student-athletes. I also can't thank David and Becky enough for their generous contribution to the hardworking men and women running for AU."

"Sean better be careful, because next year the women's soccer program will be back for round three to settle this once and for all," laughed Marsha Harper, women's soccer head coach. "All joking aside, I have to thank our parents and friends of the program, who really stepped up and donated virtually as a collective unit. With nearly every family giving on Founders Day, our parents and student-athletes came through for the team in a big way and for that, I'm incredibly thankful. We are excited for what the year to come has in store.

Thank you to all who donated and showed their AU school spirit on February 24 and 25. Next year we are excited to enjoy the festivities of Founders Day in person. Go Eagles!