Night at the Nest, Florida Gulf Coast University’s main fundraising event for athletics, raised almost $1.5 million in gross revenue this year. The event took place on December 5 at Alico Arena and brought in nearly $1 million directly. An additional $500,000 was contributed through a matching-gift campaign by the FGCU Foundation that was announced earlier in March.
Director of Athletics Colin Hargis commented on the community’s support: “The success of Night at the Nest speaks directly to the passion and belief our community has in supporting our student-athletes. We can’t thank everyone involved enough for their tremendous generosity and commitment to FGCU Athletics. Events like this are only possible through our partnership with the FGCU Foundation and the extraordinary efforts of our staff, volunteers and the FGCU Athletics Development Committee, led by the remarkable Dr. Jo Stecher.”
All funds from Night at the Nest will benefit more than 270 student-athletes who compete across 15 sports at FGCU.
This year’s fundraising focused on developing a comprehensive nutrition program for student-athletes. Community members, sponsors, and donors showed strong support for this initiative.
Hargis noted: “I’ve had countless conversations over the last several months, including at Night at the Nest, with supporters who believe strongly in the importance of proper nutrition for our student-athletes. At the same time, our student-athletes are energized and grateful for this initiative, which will allow them access to fuel when and where they need it.”
Olivia Black, a softball player and president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, highlighted how improved nutrition resources help students manage their responsibilities: “As student-athletes, balancing classes, practice and competition can be challenging. Having access to consistent nutrition resources takes a huge weight off our shoulders and gives us the fuel to train harder, recover faster and perform at our best. Knowing the FGCU community is investing in our health means a lot to us and encourages us to keep raising the bar.”
