Night at the Nest fuels FGCU Athletics
- Terrisa Mark
- Athletics
- Contributors: Lexi Harbach, Photos | Rob Salazar, Video
3 – minute read
Night at the Nest, the premier fundraising event for FGCU Athletics, generated nearly $1.5 million in gross revenue. Nearly $1 million was raised directly from the event Dec. 5 at Alico Arena, while more than $500,000 was then added to the total through the FGCU Foundation matching-gift campaign, which was announced in March.
“The success of Night at the Nest speaks directly to the passion and belief our community has in supporting our student-athletes,” Director of Athletics Colin Hargis said. “We can’t thank everyone involved enough for their tremendous generosity and commitment to FGCU Athletics. Events like this are only possible through our partnership with the FGCU Foundation and the extraordinary efforts of our staff, volunteers and the FGCU Athletics Development Committee, led by the remarkable Dr. Jo Stecher.”
All proceeds from Night at the Nest support FGCU Athletics and its more than 270 student-athletes across 15 sports.
This year’s event focused on efforts to develop a comprehensive nutrition program to fuel FGCU student-athletes. Donors, sponsors and the Southwest Florida community responded enthusiastically.
“I’ve had countless conversations over the last several months, including at Night at the Nest, with supporters who believe strongly in the importance of proper nutrition for our student-athletes,” Hargis said. “At the same time, our student-athletes are energized and grateful for this initiative, which will allow them access to fuel when and where they need it.”
Olivia Black, softball standout and president of the FGCU Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, expressed her gratitude while underscoring the importance of FGCU Athletics improving its nutrition program.
“As student-athletes, balancing classes, practice and competition can be challenging,” Black said. “Having access to consistent nutrition resources takes a huge weight off our shoulders and gives us the fuel to train harder, recover faster and perform at our best. Knowing the FGCU community is investing in our health means a lot to us and encourages us to keep raising the bar.”
