The Southern Methodist University Mustangs have surpassed their $125 million goal for their Atlantic Coast Conference Competitiveness Campaign, thanks largely to a generous commitment from Matthew H. Fleeger, SMU class of 1987, along with Candee Richmond Fleeger, SMU class of 1986. Their Fleeger Family Foundation played a pivotal role in SMU reaching its ambitious objective.
Rick Hart, SMU’s director of athletics, said, “We are deeply grateful to Matt Fleeger and the Fleeger Family Foundation for their extraordinary generosity. Their commitment not only propels us to our campaign goal, but also significantly enhances our facilities and resources, positioning SMU Athletics for sustained success in the ACC.”
The campaign was launched in response to SMU’s move to the collegiate athletic conference. The purpose of the campaign is to bolster the university’s sports programs, allowing their athletes to remain competitive among the ACC as they compete among the highest levels of collegiate sports. The initial goal set for this campaign was an ambitious $125 million, but it has just set a record for fiscal year 2024 by raising $159 million in cash and commitments.
The Fleeger Family Foundation
The Fleeger Family Foundation donated $2 million to the campaign in an effort to help it attain its goal, $1.2 million of which was earmarked for the Weber End Zone Complex, while the remaining $800,000 went to the general fund.
“I’m thrilled with the future direction of SMU Athletics,” said Matt Fleeger. “There’s never been a better time to be a Mustang, and I’m proud to support our transition to the ACC.”
Devoted alumnus Fleeger is the president and CEO of Gulf Coast Western, an oil and gas company that operates primarily in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Colorado. His company, Gulf Coast Western, is a thriving oil and gas concern exploring, developing, and acquiring domestic gas and oil reserves. Fleeger’s known for his many charitable ventures, including a partnership with the Sadie Keller Foundation, which works to bring toys to sick children during the holiday season.
Sadie Keller was only 7 years old when she was diagnosed with leukemia. She courageously started a nonprofit to provide toys to hospitalized children throughout the holidays — and Fleeger and Gulf Coast Western stepped up to donate $25,000 to Keller’s efforts and sponsor the foundation’s annual fundraising gala.
As a cancer survivor, Matt Fleeger is exceptionally compassionate toward Keller’s efforts for sick tots.
The Future of the Mustangs
With the success of this campaign, the future of the Mustangs is looking bright. Coming off of a record-setting eight-championship season, the team is prepared to experience a new level of success — they’ve already set a new record for season ticket sales at Ford Stadium. While the initial goal of the ACC Competitiveness Campaign has already been met, philanthropic support still remains a top priority for the department.
