The University of Mississippi Athletics
Ole Miss Athletics Sets Fundraising Record In 2025-26 Fiscal Year
7/23/2026 | UMAAF
OXFORD, Miss. – The Ole Miss athletics department and Ole Miss Athletics Foundation raised a record $107.9 million during the 2025-26 fiscal year, nearly doubling the previous record of $55.4 million.
"This milestone reflects the incredible passion and commitment of Rebel Nation, which is helping drive the continued success and momentum of Ole Miss athletics," said Denson Hollis, the foundation's CEO.
"The Ole Miss Athletics Foundation would like to thank every fan, member and donor that has committed to building the future of Ole Miss athletics. Their support has allowed the department to make significant strides in not only revenue generation, but in providing a first-class experience for both fans and student-athletes in Oxford."
The funds will support new scholarships, capital projects, revenue sharing and deferred maintenance at athletics venues. Planned facility work includes a new golf facility, renovated basketball locker rooms, a new field at the football practice facility and a new playing surface at Swayze Field.
The department also recognized donor support through three facility namings: Alisa and Mark Bourne Stadium, the Rayner Family Courtside Club at the Sandy and John Black Pavilion at Ole Miss and the Berry Family Field Club at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.
"Our athletics program is experiencing a historic period of success, and none of it would be possible without the steadfast support of the Ole Miss family. We are sincerely grateful for your continued enthusiasm, generosity and commitment," said Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Keith Carter.
"I am also extremely proud of Denson and our development team at the Athletics Foundation and how they have capitalized on our momentum. As the landscape of college athletics continues to evolve, it's imperative that we remain innovative and relentless in growing our resources," Carter said. "The determination and passion of Rebel Nation has allowed us to thrive in this climate and make for a bright future at Ole Miss."
The fiscal year ran from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Support from the Annual Fund and Vaught Society combined to produce the record-breaking fundraising total. The total does not include contributions related to name, image and likeness.
The Vaught Society, the leadership fundraising catalyst, crossed the 1,000-member mark in March for the first time and currently has 1,041 members. Vaught Society members pledged $65 million in new donations, including nine individual commitments of $1 million or more.
The Vaught Society hosted 11 exclusive events during the fiscal year, including an on-field dinner before the LSU football game and postseason events at the National World War II Museum and Wrigley Mansion during the College Football Playoff.
"I'm incredibly proud of our OMAF staff, whose hard work and dedication made this achievement possible," Hollis said. "Most importantly, this is a celebration of our entire athletics department. Our student-athletes, coaches, administration and staff all played a critical role in inspiring the tremendous investment that continues to move Ole Miss athletics forward."
