FGCU Fundraiser Brings in $1.5M for Student-Athlete Programs
Night at the Nest pulled in $1.5 million for Florida Gulf Coast University Athletics. The fundraiser gathered close to $1 million on Dec. 5, 2025. Another $500,000 arrived through the…
Night at the Nest pulled in $1.5 million for Florida Gulf Coast University Athletics. The fundraiser gathered close to $1 million on Dec. 5, 2025. Another $500,000 arrived through the FGCU Foundation matching-gift campaign.
Funds go to more than 270 student-athletes competing in 15 sports. This year's fundraiser zeroed in on a nutrition program built to fuel athletes during training and competition.
"The success of Night at the Nest speaks directly to the passion and belief our community has in supporting our student-athletes," said Colin Hargis, director of athletics, according to FGCU Athletics. "We can't thank everyone involved in Night at the Nest enough for their tremendous generosity and commitment to FGCU Athletics."
Hargis gave credit to the FGCU Foundation, staff members, volunteers, and the Athletics Development Committee. Dr. Jo Stecher leads the committee.
The nutrition initiative gives athletes access to fuel when they need it. Donors and sponsors from Southwest Florida showed strong support.
"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."
Olivia Black serves as president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. She also plays softball. Black expressed thanks for the community investment in athlete health.
"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."
The matching-gift campaign was announced in March. It helped double the impact of donations from the December event.
