Thank you for helping ensure that SMU will compete successfully in the Atlantic Coast Conference starting in 2024.
The resources below are designed to help you rally Mustang supporters in your network to join you in making five-year pledges that will be vital to our transition into an elite conference. Please feel free to adapt any of these materials to suit you and the people you solicit.
As an ACC Champion, you will be invited to exclusive events and opportunities.
Thank you again for all you do to encourage others to get involved and provide enhanced support for our student-athletes and coaches.
Sample emails
Option 1
Hi [NAME],
I know you’re as excited as I am about SMU joining the Atlantic Coast Conference in July. This is an incredible moment for the University.
A once-in-a-lifetime move like this comes with significant costs. To compete successfully from day one, SMU student-athletes and coaches need supporters like you and me to step up. I’m organizing a group of people who are committed to helping SMU Athletics over the next five years, and I’d love to talk with you about it. There are some significant benefits for those who participate.
When would be a good time for us to talk about the ACC Competitiveness Campaign and how you would like to get involved?
Pony Up!
[YOUR NAME]
Option 2
Hello [NAME],
SMU has launched a new ACC Competitiveness Campaign to ensure our student-athletes are ready to compete on day one in the elite conference – and I hope you will get involved.
Mustang supporters have been wanting this moment for decades. Now’s our chance to make sure we make a huge impact on the national stage.
I’m making a five-year commitment above and beyond my normal gifts to SMU, and I hope you’ll join me. If you make your pledge at [PERSONALIZED URL], you’ll be part of the group I’m organizing.
There are great opportunities for those who get involved. Let’s make sure SMU is ready to bring ACC championships to Dallas.
Pony Up!
[YOUR NAME]
P.S. If you want to know more about the importance of your commitment, check out this video message from R. Gerald Turner and David B. Miller.
Video message
Frequently asked questions
What does the ACC Competitiveness Campaign support?
Your gift will help SMU be ready to compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference on July 1, 2024. Gifts to the campaign provide enhanced support for our student-athletes and coaches – and ensure we can effectively recruit, retain, train, teach and compete for championships in the ACC.
What is a “bundle”?
A group of supporters who join together to make five-year commitments that together have a big impact. Bundles will be recognized at the $100,000, $250,000, $500,000, and $1 million levels.
Does each donor in my bundle have to pledge the same amount?
No, donors can make a pledge in any amount and be part of your bundle.
Who should I invite to join my bundle?
Any Mustang supporters, family, friends, colleagues and others in your network. We want as many longtime and new donors to join us in this important fundraising effort.
Can I complete payment of my pledge earlier than five years?
Yes. Pledges initiated via the online donation form, distributed by the ACC Champion, will default to a five-year term with equal annual installments. Donors will be mailed reminders the month prior to future installment due dates. Those wishing to initiate a pledge with a different amount or frequency of installments are invited to use the provided pledge form.
How will donors’ gifts be recognized?
Donors to the ACC Competitiveness Campaign will be invited to participate in exclusive events celebrating the move to the ACC. Those who reach certain giving thresholds will unlock additional benefits, including insiders-only opportunities as we compete in the ACC.
Can a bundle donor make an anonymous pledge?
Yes, a donor in your bundle may commit a pledge anonymously. The online donation form and the pledge form feature a checkbox for donors who wish to remain anonymous.
Do you accept gifts of closely held stock?
Yes. To electronically transfer cash or securities to SMU, please complete the pledge form and contact the Office of Gift Planning at giftplanning@smu.edu or 214-768-1911.