CHICO, Calif. — The strength and support of the Wildcat Family were once again on full display throughout the 2026 Giving Day campaign, in which the department raised over $148,600 from about 940 donors during the university-wide fundraising event that came to a close Wednesday evening.
Wildcat Athletics accounted for approximately 22 percent of the university's total dollars raised and an impressive 34 percent of all campus donors, highlighting the department's alumni and benefactors' continued affinity and commitment to supporting Chico State student-athletes and programs.
"Thank you, Wildcat Family, for making Giving Day 2026 such a meaningful success," said Executive Director of Athletics Eric Coleman. "With 940 donors and over $148,600 raised for Chico State Athletics, your generosity directly impacts our student-athletes, in the classroom, in competition, and in their growth as leaders. I also want to thank our student-athletes, coaches, and Giving Day ambassadors for the energy, outreach, and pride they brought to the day. Together, we are building Wildcats Today, Tomorrow & Forever."
This year's Giving Day efforts mark the second-highest Giving Day total in the past four years. Coming off the most successful Back the 'Cats campaign this past fall, the department looks to continue momentum in strengthening fundraising efforts and community engagement.
Every Challenge Met
Our generous Wildcat donors stepped up in a big way, successfully helping teams unlock their 2026 Athletics challenge gifts, which provide additional support for multiple programs. Thank you to the 2026 Athletics Giving Day challenge donors for leading the charge and motivating further participation among the following teams:
Women's Golf – Butte Creek Women's Golf Club – $1,500
Women's Basketball – Phyllis and Gregg Berryman – $1,000
Men's Basketball – Gregg and Phyllis Berryman – $1,000
Men's Track & Field – Jay Gilbert – $3,500
Women's Track & Field – Jay Gilbert – $3,500
Men's Cross Country – Greg and Nancy Meadows – $1,250; Chuck Sheley – $1,000
Women's Cross Country – Greg and Nancy Meadows – $1,250; Chuck Sheley – $1,000
Wildcats Win Campus-Wide Challenges
Several Chico State programs also earned additional funding through campus-wide competitions:
Women's Cross Country
$1,000 Ambassador Challenge Winner
$2,000 Donor Leaderboard – 1st Place
$1,500 Dollar Leaderboard – 2nd Place
Men's Cross Country
$2,000 Dollar Leaderboard – 1st Place
$1,000 Donor Leaderboard – 3rd Place
Women's Track & Field
$1,500 Donor Leaderboard – 2nd Place
A Community Effort
From alumni and parents to friends and fans, 940 donors invested in the Wildcat experience this year. Gifts raised through Giving Day directly support scholarships, travel, equipment, and overall program needs, helping Chico State student-athletes compete at a championship level while excelling in the classroom and community.
Chico State Athletics extends its sincere gratitude to every donor who made Giving Day 2026 a success. Your support continues to empower our student-athletes in both their academic and athletic achievements.
