POCATELLO, Idaho — Thanks to the participation and generosity of hundreds of individuals, the Prepare to Roar athletics fundraiser notched another record setting effort and established a new all-time fundraising mark for the campaign.
With the sole purpose of investing in the Idaho State University student-athlete experience and leveling up the financial resources provided to the Bengal coaching staff, more than $900,000 was raised coming from 655 gifts. Both of those totals far surpass the target mark of $750,000 and 600 gifts and symbolize an increased commitment by the community, alumni, and supporters for the Bengal student-athlete community.
Director of Athletics Pauline Thiros said, "With the culmination of our 'Prepare to Roar' campaign, we have not only set a new record for the fall campaign but also demonstrated the incredible spirit and commitment of our Bengal community. This continuing success empowers us to elevate our athletic programs and inspire our student-athletes to achieve excellence on and off the field. Thank you to everyone who joined us in this remarkable journey. We are only just getting started, and our aspirations are very high to continue growing and succeeding at a high level!".
As part of this effort, several corporate benefactors offered unlockable challenges and dollar-for-dollar matches to encourage participation throughout the campaign. These were highlighted by: $65,000 from the Football Alumni Team, $50,000 from 2024 Quarterback Club presenting sponsor Direct Communications (Rockland), $25,000 from 2024 Match Point Club presenting sponsor Citizens Community Bank, $25,000 from Direct Communications (Cedar Valley), $21,000 from Dairy West and their Local Dairy Farm Families, $20,000 from Portneuf Health Trust, $10,000 from Engineered Structures Inc. In addition, matching contributions were made by a number of individuals including: Steve and Suzy Barlow, Larry and Kathy Bell, Jim and Vicki Click, Phil and Bekki Meador, Sylvia Papenberg, Kim Wahlen, and Don and Candie Wyckoff.
The funds raised during this campaign will provide immediate support across the department including the areas of nutrition, sports performance, financial aid, academic support, facility enhancements, and more. Here are a few highlights:
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For the second consecutive year, the softball team was the first to reach their fundraising mark seeing a final tally above $29,000!
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En route to raising an incredible $63,000, the cross country and track and field program secured the greatest number of gifts, totaling 144.
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$286,441 was raised for the Champions Fund aiding support in the areas of greatest need that advance ISU's mission of leading the Big Sky Conference academically, athletically, and in the culture and experience available for Bengal student-athletes.
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In its inaugural year, the Women's Sports Excellence Fund raised more than $60,000 providing the coaches of our women's programs with a tremendous advantage in recruiting, the quality of experience, and the wellness of their Bengal student-athletes.
"I could not be more grateful for the incredible showing of support we saw during this year's Prepare to Roar campaign, to say that it is inspiring is an understatement!", said Crew Keller, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development and External Relations. "Our Bengal donors are investing in our student-athletes at an all-time high level and they are a huge factor in us climbing up the ladder in the Big Sky Conference. I know that our student-athletes and our coaches look forward to making our donors proud in the year ahead!".
In comparison to last year's effort, the 2024 Prepare to Roar campaign saw an increase in total dollars raised, realizing a $160,000 bump as well as a notable uptick in the number of total gifts. For a more historical glance, the Prepare to Roar campaign has grown over 325% in dollars raised and 280% in donor participation since its first year in 2020.
For those still wishing to support the Bengals or renew a sport club membership, the
campaign website will remain live for the remainder of the fall.
