Pocatello, Idaho — Idaho State University Athletics is proud to announce the return of its annual Prepare To Roar fundraising campaign, set to begin Monday, August 10. Entering its seventh year, the initiative continues to build on a strong tradition of engagement and support from Bengal Nation, following multiple years of record-setting participation and impact.
Support from alumni, businesses, families, and community members helps provide opportunities that allow Bengal student-athletes to succeed academically, compete at a high level, and represent Idaho State throughout the region and nation.
This year, Idaho State Athletics has set ambitious goals of raising $900,000 from 900 donors by the conclusion of the campaign on August 21.
The Prepare To Roar campaign directly supports more than 300 Bengal student-athletes and remains a cornerstone effort in enhancing the overall student-athlete experience. Funds raised provide critical support across all programs, including academic services, nutrition, sports medicine, strength and performance, travel, and scholarship and cost-of-attendance assistance.
"Prepare To Roar continues to represent the best of what Bengal Athletics can be when our community comes together," said Director of Athletics Pauline Thiros. "It is a reflection of belief in our student-athletes, their commitment, and the future we are building together. Every year, we see what is possible when people step forward, and that momentum has a direct impact on our ability to compete and support our teams at the highest level."
For Bengal student-athletes, donor support can help provide resources such as travel to competition, academic support services, nutrition programs, and performance training that contribute to success both on and off the field. This year's campaign once again features a robust group of challenge donors, including longtime partners Citizens Community Bank, Direct Communications, Lookout Credit Union, and the Football Alumni Team (F.A.T.). In addition, a record number of individual supporters have joined as challenge donors, creating early momentum opportunities designed to encourage broad participation across the Bengal community.
"Early engagement is one of the most important factors in the success of Prepare To Roar," said Crew Keller, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development and External Relations. "Our challenge donors help create energy from day one, and that enthusiasm carries throughout the campaign. We are grateful for their leadership and continued investment in Bengal Athletics."
During the campaign, donors will have the opportunity to direct their support to 20 designated areas, including each of Idaho State's NCAA Division I programs, as well as key impact funds such as the Bengal Nutrition Fund, Champions Fund, Cost of Attendance Fund, Iron Ambush Club (Sports Performance), Student-Athlete Success Fund, and the Women's Sports Excellence Fund. Support opportunities will also extend to the Football Alumni Team (F.A.T.), Bengal Dancers, and the Idaho State University Cheer Squad.
"Every year, we see what is possible when people step forward," says Thiros, "and that momentum has a direct impact on our ability to compete and support our teams at the highest level."
To learn more about the 2026 Prepare To Roar campaign or to make an early contribution, visit the campaign website. All gifts are 100% tax-deductible and directly benefit Idaho State student-athletes.
For information on supporting a specific program or to discuss matching gift opportunities, please contact Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development and External Relations Crew Keller at crewkeller@isu.edu or (208) 220-4773.
