Thompson Sales Champions Challenge sets records with donors and fundraising

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The 2024 Thompson Sales Champions Challenge annual fundraising campaign to support Drury athletic programs achieved record success. In total, 1,190 donors contributed $397,841 during the week-long event that started Sept. 17 and concluded at midnight on Sept. 24.
 
“First of all, I want to say ‘thank you’ to all those who contributed and to Thompson Sales for serving as our presenting sponsor and making this event so successful,” said Drury Vice President & Director of Athletics Nyla Milleson. “I’m humbled and honored that nearly 1,200 participated and made the decision to invest in the lives of our student-athletes. I want to thank our coaches, our student-athletes, Kelly Anderson in our Advancement office, and all those who helped line up matching funds to help us surpass our goal and make this event so successful.”
 
This year’s total exceeded last year’s amount raised by more than $100,000. Last year’s Champions Challenge generated $288,630 from more than 900 donors.
 
“It was an unbelievable success this year. With a 30% increase in total donors and a 37% increase in gifts received, it confirms that Drury University is a special place that our community supports with pride,” said Wayne Chipman, Senior Vice President for University Advancement. “This campaign directly enhances the Panther student-athlete experience on the field, court, pitch, and in the classroom.”
 
The funds raised by the Champions Challenge will help support student-athletes participating in Drury’s 22 NCAA programs and 13 non-NCAA sports. This year’s event marked the fifth year for the Champions Challenge, which has generated more than $1.2 million since its inception.
 
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Established in 1873, Drury University stands as the first higher education institution in Springfield, MO. A private, church-related institution, Drury exemplifies a strong spirit of community passionate about student success. Noteworthy is Drury’s innovative academic approach, known as Drury Fusion, which sets students apart by giving them a powerful advantage in acquiring exceptional outcomes by fusing professional credentials and life aspirations. Marketing and Communications staff are available to news media 24 hours a day at (417) 850-5089. Visit the Marketing and Communications office online at https://www.drury.edu/newsroom/ for the latest news. Resources, including searchable staff contacts and downloadable print-quality images and logos, can be found at https://www.drury.edu/mc/.