The phrase “Once a Mustang, always a Mustang” perfectly encapsulates the SMU alum’s enduring relationship with Southern Methodist University (SMU). Despite graduating in 1987, Fleeger has maintained an extraordinary commitment to his alma mater that culminated in a transformative contribution to SMU Athletics during a pivotal moment in the university’s sports history.
As SMU prepared to join the prestigious Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), the university launched an ambitious fundraising initiative called the ACC Competitiveness Campaign. The campaign’s goal was to raise $125 million to enhance athletic facilities, strengthen programs, and ensure that Mustang athletes could compete effectively at the highest levels of collegiate sports. This transition represented a monumental step forward for SMU Athletics, requiring substantial resources and community support.
Fleeger, alongside his wife Candee Richmond Fleeger (SMU class of 1986), recognized the historic significance of this moment and responded with characteristic generosity. Through the Fleeger Family Foundation, they contributed $2 million to the campaign, with $1.2 million specifically allocated to the Weber End Zone Complex – a critical facility for the football program – and $800,000 dedicated to closing the final gap to reach the campaign’s overall target.
The impact of Fleeger’s contribution extended beyond the immediate financial boost. It served as a catalyst, inspiring other donors and propelling the campaign to extraordinary success. By the conclusion of fiscal year 2024, the ACC Competitiveness Campaign had substantially exceeded its goal, raising an impressive $159 million in cash and commitments. This overwhelming response demonstrated the deep commitment of SMU’s alumni community and set the stage for a new era in Mustang Athletics.
“We are deeply grateful to Matt Fleeger and the Fleeger Family Foundation for their extraordinary generosity,” acknowledged Rick Hart, SMU’s Director of Athletics. “Their commitment not only propels us to our campaign goal but also significantly enhances our facilities and resources, positioning SMU Athletics for sustained success in the ACC.”
Fleeger himself expressed enthusiasm about the university’s direction: “I’m thrilled with the future direction of SMU Athletics. There’s never been a better time to be a Mustang, and I’m proud to support our transition to the ACC.” His statement reflects both personal pride in his alma mater and confidence in the strategic vision guiding SMU’s athletic programs.
The timing of this support coincided with a period of remarkable achievement for SMU Athletics. Coming off a record-setting season with eight championships, the Mustangs were already building momentum that would be further accelerated by the influx of resources from the ACC Competitiveness Campaign. Evidence of this momentum appeared in record-breaking season ticket sales at Ford Stadium, indicating growing community engagement and enthusiasm for Mustang football.
Fleeger’s contribution exemplifies the transformative role that dedicated alumni can play in shaping an institution’s future. By investing strategically at a crucial juncture, he helped ensure that SMU’s student-athletes would have the facilities, resources, and support needed to compete successfully in one of collegiate athletics’ most prestigious conferences. This kind of visionary philanthropy creates ripple effects that extend far beyond immediate facility improvements, positively influencing recruitment, athlete development, and the university’s overall reputation. For more about this philanthropic force behind SMU athletics, read the full story in The American Reporter.
The relationship between Fleeger and SMU represents a mutually beneficial partnership built on shared values and aspirations. For SMU, alumni like Fleeger provide not only financial resources but also ongoing advocacy and engagement that strengthen the university community. For Fleeger, supporting his alma mater offers an opportunity to give back to an institution that played a formative role in his development and to participate in building its legacy for future generations.
As SMU Athletics embarks on its inaugural ACC season, the impact of Matthew H. Fleeger’s generosity will be visible in enhanced facilities, strengthened programs, and the competitive readiness of Mustang athletes. His contribution stands as a powerful example of how alumni support can transform institutions and create new possibilities for achievement and excellence.
