HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. — Northern Kentucky University Athletics garnered strong support during the University's annual Founders' Day celebration, raising $100,428.23 from 281 donors to benefit NKU student-athletes.

During the 1,968-minute campuswide giving campaign, supporters made a record-breaking 371 total gifts benefiting Norse Athletics and its 22 varsity programs. Contributions will directly fund scholarships, travel, nutrition, technology and other resources that enhance the student-athlete experience and elevate competitive excellence.

"We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our supporters and their commitment to NKU Athletics," said Northern Kentucky University Vice President and Director of Athletics Christina Roybal. "The support we received during Founders' Day will have a meaningful impact on our student-athletes and help provide the resources they need to succeed in competition, in the classroom and in the community."

Several initiatives helped drive engagement throughout the campaign, including a $25,000 challenge gift from Brent Cooper, president and CEO of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, which was unlocked when 100 donors made gifts to Norse Athletics funds.

A $5,000 matching gift from anonymous donors also supported the Victor E. Viking mascot fund, doubling contributions toward a new mascot suit.

Women's Swimming led all teams with 61 donors. The program also earned the top bonus of $1,500 during the Leadership Donor Challenge, surpassing all campus funds in donor participation during the designated time frame. Men's soccer led all programs in total dollars raised, with $26,882.

Compared to last year's Founders' Day campaign, NKU Athletics saw increased participation, with a 7.3% increase in donors and a 25.8% increase in total gifts year over year. The 2026 campaign also recorded the highest number of gifts to athletics funds since Founders' Day began in 2021.

Founders' Day commemorates the founding of Northern Kentucky University in 1968 and provides an opportunity for supporters to invest in NKU initiatives during a 1,968-minute giving period.