University of Houston: Houston Rise Continues Climb with $5 Million Gift
Houston Rise, University of Houston Athletics’ $150 million campaign to compete for championships in the Big 12 Conference, continued its climb with the Athletic Department announcing a $5 million anonymous gift in support of the Football Operations Center on Thursday.
The contribution represents another major boost for the campaign, which continues to build momentum as the Cougars prepare for play in the Power 5 in July 2023.
Designated as an anchor priority and a resource vital to the future of Houston Football, the Football Operations Center, once complete, will instantly enhance recruiting efforts and enable new levels of service and support for Houston Football student-athletes.
At 125,000 square feet, the Operations Center will provide the program a state-of-the-art home and firmly establish Houston Football as a first-choice destination for the nation’s top talent.
“The Football Operation Center is essential to the future of our program. It will be a one-stop-shop for our players with everything housed under one roof,” Houston Football Head Coach Dana Holgorsen said. “It will also play a major role in providing top-of-the-line amenities and experiences for our team. Donations like the $5 million gift today are critical in bringing this project to life and helping even the playing field among our future Power 5 conference competitors. We cannot thank all those who have donated enough.”
With the first season in the Big 12 approaching, the significance of Football Operations Center has become increasingly apparent, with this most recent gift reflective of heightened urgency.
“We have always been big supporters of the University of Houston,” said the donor via a prepared statement. “A strong athletics program brings prestige and respect to the entire university. The only way to continue to build that success is by investing in the program. Moving into the Big 12 only increases the need to improve and update the facilities. As lifelong Coogs, we want to do our part to make that possible. We encourage everyone to do what they can to raise the bar!”
The commitment also exemplifies the strong response to Houston Rise, with the campaign pushing vigorously towards its $150 million target. Energized by the campaign, fundraising for the Athletic Department is at record levels, with over $34 million raised in fiscal year 2022.
“It’s another amazing example of people who have bought in to what we’re trying to do and who are helping out in any way they can,” Vice President for Athletics Chris Pezman said. “It’s affirming with what we’re doing and where we’re going. We have a lot of work to do. That work requires help, resources and people who are kind enough to trust in us. That type of commitment is both gratifying and overwhelming. With individuals like this, we have great things coming. We need more help and with our supporters we will get where we want to be and enjoy the process.”