The Columbia Campaign for Athletics: Achieving Excellence

Transforming the Student-Athlete Experience

A Message from Dr. M. Dianne Murphy, Director, Intercollegiate Athletics and Physical Education

Over the past five years, President Bollinger and the University Trustees, with the support of a special President’s Task Force on Athletics, have invested time, thought, and financial resources in formulating a strategy for transforming athletics at Columbia. Their commitment underlies our efforts to bring athletics in line with Columbia’s hallmark standards of excellence.

To pursue this strategy, we have launched The Columbia Campaign for Athletics: Achieving Excellence. An unprecedented $100 million initiative, it reflects a deep and shared commitment among the University community. We are committed to building world-class facilities that foster championship performances. We are committed to attracting and retaining outstanding coaches and providing them with the resources they need to be successful. And we are committed to providing an environment that will make Columbia the first choice for the best student-athletes.

Investing in Places

To achieve excellence in athletics at Columbia, our facilities must be improved. The cornerstone of our investment will be the construction of a new Sports Center at the Baker Field Athletics Complex. The new Sports Center will accommodate 14 outdoor varsity sports in a state-of-the-art facility. When the Sports Center is complete, we will continue our plans to modernize the Dodge Fitness Center, increasing space for other varsity sports programs, physical education, recreation, fitness, and wellness. The resulting facilities will make Columbia even more attractive to the best coaches and student athletes.

Investing in People

Along with Places, we will also be investing in People. A key priority for the Campaign is the endowment of coaching and administrative positions. We intend to win the competition for outstanding coaches and administrators.

Investing in Programs

Along with People and Places, we will also be investing in Programs. Another priority for the Campaign is the resources to support ongoing operations and fund innovative programs that enhance the student-athlete experience. Now is our time. We see the progress in a record five Ivy League Championships during the 2006–2007 academic year. More alumni, parents, and friends are supporting Columbia Athletics with gifts and attendance at special events and athletic contests. University Trustees and other leading alumni and friends have already provided significant philanthropic support and tangible commitments toward our $100 million objective.

Now Is Our Time

More than 800 student-athletes represent Columbia each year in NCAA Division I and Ivy League competition. Our ability to transform their experience depends upon this Campaign in support of People, Places, and Programs. The time is now. I invite you to be part of creating and sustaining a winning legacy. You can make a difference for Columbia’s student-athletes and the entire Columbia community.

Learn more about The Columbia Campaign for Athletics (Flash required).

Supporters of Columbia Football and the most generous Athletics donors are eligible for special ticket and parking benefits. Click here for more information.

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