Foundation grows in uncertain economy

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — In the face of uncertain economic times, The Razorback Foundation Inc. cultivated growth in annual and total support while fostering an increase in membership levels in the 2009 fiscal year.The Razorback Foundation, supported by the University of Arkansas Athletic Department, actively worked to off-set the impact of the forecasted 18 to 20 percent decline in annual giving to the Razorbacks due to the economy. The Razorback Foundation’s efforts coupled with the success of the Razorback program helped not only stem the potential economic downturn, but to foster growth in membership and annual fund levels.“We are extremely grateful to our Razorback Foundation members for providing the support and resources for our 19 sports programs,” says Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Jeff Long. “Recognizing the financial realities of some Razorback supporters, our foundation team led by Executive Director Harold Horton reached out to encourage those who had the means to increase their giving, to help off-set those impacted by the economy. Countless supporters responded to the call and the net result was a growth in the annual fund. We appreciate all of those who have made an investment in the lives of our nearly 460 student-athletes enabling them the opportunity to succeed in the classroom and in athletic competition.”The annual fund saw an increase of 6.75 percent in 2009, increasing from $11,072,245 to $11,819,370. Arkansas head football coach Bobby Petrino led the way in November when he became a Broyles-Matthews Platinum member, making a personal $100,000 commitment to the Razorback Foundation. Petrino’s gift is believed to be the largest donation to the Razorback Foundation Annual Fund by a sitting Razorback head coach in school history.Membership in the Razorback Foundation increased from 10,390 in November 2008 to 10,587 in June 2009. With four months remaining and the traditional football season new membership period approaching, the final number will likely climb even higher. For the first time in school history, all 19 Razorback head coaches and members of the athletic department’s executive and senior administrative staffs are members of the Razorback Foundation. The Razorback Foundation’s goal is ensuring the nearly 460 student-athletes at Arkansas have the equipment, facilities and overall support to achieve the goals of graduation and athletic achievement.Horton took over as executive director of The Razorback Foundation Inc. in Fall 2008 and is joined by associate directors Sean Rochelle and Norm DeBriyn. Former University of Arkansas athletic director Frank Broyles also serves as a special fund raiser with the Razorback Foundation, Inc.