LAS CRUCES, N.M. – NM State Athletics announced a historic fundraising milestone as the Lou and Mary Henson Excellence Fund surpassed the $1 million mark in annual giving for the first time in school history during the most recent giving year, which concluded on March 31.
This achievement represents the highest single-year fundraising total in the annals of NM State Athletics history and marks the 10th time in the last 11 years that annual giving to the department has increased, with the lone exception coming during the COVID-19-impacted 2020-21 year.
"This milestone belongs to every Aggie who believes in our student-athletes," said NM State Deputy Director of Athletics and Chief Revenue Officer
Chet Savage. "Surpassing $1 million in annual giving reflects the extraordinary commitment of Aggie Nation. Every contribution has a meaningful impact on our student-athletes, and we are sincerely grateful for both the financial and emotional support behind this achievement."
The record-setting year was bolstered by broad-based support, including increased participation across sport-specific giving initiatives and leadership-level contributions through the Lou and Mary Henson Excellence Fund, which provides critical resources for scholarships, facilities, operations and student-athlete development.
"This is a defining moment for our athletics program," said NM State Director of Athletics
Joe Fields. "The success of the Lou and Mary Henson Excellence Fund reflects the confidence our supporters have in the direction of NM State Athletics. Their generosity allows us to continue strive towards our goals of winning championships, graduating student-athletes and operating a first-class organization."
Funds generated through the Lou and Mary Henson Excellence Fund play a vital role in driving NM State Athletics forward by directly investing in the success and well‑being of Aggie student-athletes. Donor support expands scholarship opportunities, enhances academic services and helps provide individualized development pathways that prepare student-athletes for life beyond competition.
Contributions also support emerging revenue-sharing opportunities, strengthen access to mental health and sports psychology resources, and fuel advanced performance, preparation and recovery initiatives. Together, these investments ensure Aggie student-athletes are supported in every aspect of their collegiate experience while positioning NM State Athletics for long-term sustainability and continued competitiveness on a national level.
To learn more about the Lou and Mary Henson Excellence Fund and its mission, visit NMStateSports.com. Individuals interested in supporting NM State Athletics can call 575-646-2569, visit the Fulton Center during normal business hours or contribute online at this
link.
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), X (
@NMStateAggies) and Instagram (
@NMStateAggies).
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