LAS CRUCES, N.M. – Saturday morning, NM State Athletics announced that the Lou & Mary Henson Excellence Fund will serve as the cornerstone of support for all Aggie Athletics.
"Lou would be incredibly proud," said Mary Henson. "He always believed in giving young people the tools to succeed in life, and the fact that this fund supports today's student-athletes in meaningful ways would thrill him to no end."
Established in honor of former NM State coach and athletic director Lou Henson and his wife, Mary, the Fund advances the well-being of every student-athlete through comprehensive player benefits that enhance education, health, training, and personal development.
"The Lou & Mary Henson Excellence Fund represents the next step forward for Aggie Athletics,"
Joe Fields remarked. "It allows us to care for our student-athletes in a comprehensive way like never before, while staying competitive in a rapidly changing environment. The Henson family believes deeply in opportunity, preparation, and doing things the right way, and this fund ensures those values continue to guide our future."
The Henson Excellence fund will elevate and position NM State Athletics in a way that reflects the pride of our university, the strength of our community, and the potential of our student-athletes. This will be accomplished through graduating student-athletes, winning championships, and running a first-class organization. Additionally, the Henson Excellence Fund will replace the Aggie Athletic Club, NM State's general athletics giving initiative.
"This fund is about young people and not just programs," said Mary Henson. "It's about giving student-athletes a chance to succeed in life and not just sports. Every gift truly makes a difference in shaping their futures."
How Can I Support?
To learn more about the Lou & Mary Henson Excellence Fund or to join the inaugural class of Henson Fund members, please visit
HensonFund.com.
Your support strengthens the student-athlete experience through enhanced resources for education, wellness, training, and the financial benefits now permitted in today's collegiate model. Every gift helps NM State remain competitive while upholding the integrity and opportunity that define Aggie Athletics.
- Online: Visit HensonFund.com
- Mail: Checks payable to NMSU Foundation – Henson Fund (1815 Wells Street, Las Cruces, NM 88003)
- Phone: Call the Henson Fund Office at (575) 646-5151
- In Person: Stop by the Henson Fund Office in the Fulton Center, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
For complete coverage of NM State athletics throughout the 2025-26 academic year and beyond, visit NMStateSports.com - the official home of Aggie athletics - and follow the Aggies on Facebook (NM State Aggies), Twitter (@NMStateAggies) and Instagram (@NMStateAggies).
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