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Game Time!
On September 6, 2024, SMU alumni, family and fans gathered to dedicate the Garry Weber End Zone Complex at Gerald J. Ford Stadium. Launched by the largest gift in the history of SMU Athletics, the new complex is supported by over 700 generous SMU alumni and donors.
From the President
Generous support from SMU donors fuels our entrance into the ACC and academic initiatives in every area of the University as we progress toward the $1.5 billion goal for SMU Ignited: Boldly Shaping Tomorrow.
Campaign quarterly report
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Fortifying the future of SMU Athletics
A $2 million gift from Matthew H. Fleeger ’87 and Valerie “Candee” Fleeger ’86, ’90 and the Fleeger Family Foundation to the Garry Weber End Zone Complex and the ACC Competitiveness Campaign will enhance SMU facilities and strengthen student-athlete experiences in all 17 sports programs.
Fueling a new era of Mustang football
The Shaddock family made a $1 million commitment to the Garry Weber End Zone Complex, which will name the football team auditorium, a vital space for team meetings, film study, guest speakers and strategic planning.
Accelerating success on the court
A $1 million gift from Jodi and Kenneth Pratt will support the SMU men’s basketball program and new head men’s basketball coach Andy Enfield, including new renovations of the locker room and team offices.
Q&A with Paula H. Rhines and Walden C. “Wally” Rhines ’75
The couple shares their excitement about SMU Athletics and the reasons why they support the University’s research and academic initiatives.
Paying it forward
Noriko Sharp established the Dr. and Mrs. James Hilton Sharp Endowment to fund meaningful engineering research and advancement. James H. Sharp ’51, ’74, ’87 was a renowned presence in the Dallas engineering community.
Strengthening music education and performance
The Jeane R. Johnson Foundation has announced a gift to establish a permanent fund that supports adjunct music faculty at the SMU Meadows School of the Arts who also hold positions with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.
Empowering Mustang success
SMU Trustee David S. Huntley ’80 and Tracey M. Nash-Huntley have made a gift to support SMU students through mentorship and scholarships.
Years of service and giving
William L. “Bill” Hutchison ’54, ’55 and Patsy Pinson Hutchison ’54 created a legacy that has inspired Mustangs and touched many areas of the University.
Welcoming new trustees
The SMU Board of Trustees formally confirmed ten new members who are committed to strengthening the future of the University and its mission.
Inspiring pride on the Hilltop
Generous support for SMU Spirit programs allows the teams to build on their successful history in new and exciting ways as the University enters the ACC.
Pursuing meaningful solutions
Moody dissertation fellow Kelsey Paulhus ’24 pursues research into the causes of a life-threatening epileptic disorder, which may lead to more effective treatments for patients.
Making the leap
Ying-Chu Chen ’24, ’25 came to SMU as a President’s Scholar and dance major but never anticipated that would open the door to a career in mechanical engineering.
Designing for all
Collaborating with the Toyota Mobility Foundation, students in the SMU Master of Arts in Design and Innovation program are working to create meaningful solutions for people with lower limb differences.
Charging ahead
A new era began as the SMU community celebrated the Mustangs’ entry into the Atlantic Coast Conference on July 1, 2024. The event in downtown Dallas was attended by over 900 alumni, family and friends – and broadcast nationally on the ACC Network. Attendees included Rhett Lashlee, SMU head football coach; David B. Miller ’72, ’73, SMU Board of Trustees chair; James J. Phillips, ACC commissioner; R. Gerald Turner, SMU president; Andy Enfield, SMU head men’s basketball coach; Toyelle Wilson, SMU head women’s basketball coach; and Rick Hart, SMU director of Athletics.
With SMU’s beloved Peruna, the costumed mascots from all ACC member teams joined the revelry by visiting landmarks in the region and on the Hilltop. The day concluded with the skyline lighting up in red and blue to celebrate Dallas’ team officially joining the prestigious conference.
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Welcoming students in reimagined spaces
When classes began in August 2024, students and faculty made the most of the newly renovated spaces and classrooms in the David B. Miller Business Quadrangle, the new home of the SMU Cox School of Business.
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Making new connections
In cities across the country, new students and parents were welcomed by local SMU alumni, family and friends at the University’s annual Summer Send-off events. A beloved annual tradition, these events forge new connections, create cherished memories and wish the next generation of Mustangs a successful and exciting year ahead.
Go Mustangs!
Join us on the Hilltop or the road and cheer on our Mustangs as they battle on the gridiron this season. SMU tailgates are a great way to reconnect with longtime friends while enjoying appetizers, drinks and lots of swag to show your Mustang pride.
Happenings on the Hilltop (and beyond)
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September 27–29
Sept. 28 – SMU v. Florida State football game (first ACC home game)
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October 31–November 3
Homecoming and reunions
Oct. 31 – Distinguished Alumni Awards
Nov. 1 – Reunions
Nov. 2 – SMU v. Pittsburgh football game
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December 2
Celebration of Lights
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December 7
SMU v. Virginia men's basketball game (first ACC home game)
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January 2
SMU v. Stanford women's basketball game (first ACC home game)
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