WASHINGTON – American University Athletics reached new heights in philanthropy during fiscal year 2026, raising a record $4.375 million in support of student-athletes while setting new benchmarks in donor participation, Giving Day and department-wide fundraising.
The total represents only the third time in the department's recorded history that Athletics has surpassed $4 million in new commitments, and continues a remarkable stretch of philanthropic momentum. Since 2022, AU Athletics has secured more than $7.6 million in new commitments.
A total of 2,400 donors supported AU Athletics throughout the year, helping strengthen scholarships, enhance the student-athlete experience and invest in the future of all 16 varsity programs.
"Record-breaking years like this don't happen without an incredible community of alumni, parents, friends and fans who believe in what we're building at American," said JM Caparro, Director of Athletics and Recreation. "Every gift, regardless of size, directly impacts our student-athletes by providing resources that help them excel in competition, in the classroom and as leaders beyond graduation. We're incredibly grateful for that support and excited to continue building on this momentum together."
FY26 by the Numbers
- $4.375 million raised in philanthropic support
- 2,400 athletics donors
- $450,000 generated during Giving Day (department record)
- 86% increase in Champions Fund commitments
- $500,000+ raised for men's basketball (program record)
- $150,000+ raised for wrestling
- 44 donors with commitments of $10,000 or more
Athletics generated approximately $450,000 during the university's two-day Giving Day campaign, setting a department fundraising record for the fourth consecutive year while once again leading the university in donor participation.
The department also experienced unprecedented growth in the Champions Fund, with commitments totaling $242,724—an 86 percent increase over the previous year. The Champions Fund provides flexible support that allows AU Athletics to meet its highest priorities while enhancing the experience of every student-athlete.
Several sport programs also achieved historic fundraising success during the fiscal year.
Men's basketball generated a program-record more than $500,000 in new commitments, representing a 338 percent increase over the previous year. Wrestling commitments surpassed $150,000, a 40 percent increase, while women's basketball commitments grew by 50 percent and women's volleyball commitments increased 61 percent. Several additional programs also established fundraising records during the year.
Support came from across the American University community. Friends represented 44 percent of all athletics donors, while alumni accounted for 29 percent. Parents and former parents made up 21 percent of the donor base, including 446 donors. In addition, 44 donors made commitments of $10,000 or more, helping strengthen the foundation for future major gifts.
Fiscal year 2026 also marked the opening of the donor-funded Alan and Amy Meltzer Center for Athletic Performance, providing AU student-athletes with a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to training, recovery and performance.
"These investments are creating opportunities that will benefit our student-athletes for years to come," Caparro said. "As we continue to build on this momentum, we're excited to welcome even more members of the American community to join us in shaping the future of AU Athletics."
Record-breaking support has positioned AU Athletics for an exciting future, but the work continues. Fans who want to help shape the next chapter are encouraged to support the Champions Fund or their favorite program and invest in the continued success of Eagle student-athletes.
