SPRINGFIELD -- Missouri State University's annual Giving Day campaign, held March 24–25, was paced by the efforts of Athletics donors and contributors who accounted for half of the event's overall success.

University-wide totals for 2026 included $277,566 in contributions from some 1,502 new individual gifts. Athletics contributions were responsible for 813 new gifts (54.1 percent of the university's total) and a total of $137,291 pledged (49.5 percent) during the 36-hour celebration.

"We are grateful for the numerous Bears supporters who helped make Athletics the university's top performer for this year's Giving Day," said Director of Athletics Patrick Ransdell. "Our continued success is contingent on the growth and expansion of our fan support in all areas."

Likewise, a number of Athletics donors were involved in various matching gifts or challenges throughout this year's campaign, including:

• Michael Seabolt
• Neosha & John Mackey
• Rob & Christy Snelling
• Dick & Debbie Williams
• Linda Dollar
• Tim Axley
• Multiple anonymous donors

Fans may donate to the Missouri State Bears Fund or Competitive Excellence Fund anytime by visiting the Bears Fund portal online: DONATE NOW.

The next major Bears Fund event will be the annual Sneaker Soiree auction which is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, August 1 at Great Southern Bank Arena.