New Mexico State University is proposing a unique funding solution for its women’s sports programs by creating a $137 million endowment with support from the state legislature. The endowment would provide NMSU athletics with $5-6 million in annual income or a one-time appropriation of $27.5 million to support women’s athletics programs for five years.
The proposal comes as NMSU faces financial challenges due to increased expenses and reduced NCAA distributions. Despite being one of the least-resourced FBS schools, NMSU is seeking innovative ways to secure funding for its athletic programs. The state of New Mexico’s recent budget boom from oil and gas revenues has created an opportunity for NMSU to seek funding from the state legislature.
NMSU athletic director Mario Moccia is confident in the proposal and has received positive feedback from legislators and stakeholders. The endowment proposal will complement the annual funding already provided by the state to NMSU’s athletic department.
The legislative session to approve the proposal will begin in January, with a final approval scheduled for April. NMSU is actively lobbying for support from legislators and seeking additional funding from individual donors. This proactive approach has received praise from coaches and athletes at NMSU, who see it as a bold and innovative solution for funding women’s sports programs.
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