With public support for facility enhancements and the student-athlete experience at an all-time high, Murray State Athletics has received the largest gift in school history from the Dill Family, announced on August 20th. This unprecedented investment, which serves as the lead gift in the University’s Be Bold: Forever Blue & Gold Centennial Campaign, marks a record sixth seven-figure contribution to Racer Athletics this year. The donation underscores the extraordinary generosity of alumni and friends, as Murray State completes two consecutive record years in raising private support.
University President Dr. Bob Jackson highlighted the significance of the gift, stating, “David and Ashley Dill and the entire Dill Family have deep roots at the University. David, who is the national chair of the $100 million Be Bold: Forever Blue & Gold Centennial Campaign, a 2015 Distinguished Alumnus, and a Trustee of the MSU Foundation, has made a transformational gift that will advance the initiatives in our campaign plans and elevate Racer Athletics to a new level. We are deeply grateful for this historic gift and their longstanding commitment, friendship, and support.”
This gift will significantly impact future facility projects, aligning with the department’s focus on recruiting and revenue opportunities. David Dill reflected on his family’s connection to Murray State, saying, “My family and I have called this community home since 1978 when my father joined the Racer basketball coaching staff, and my mother began her career teaching kindergarten at Murray Elementary School. My brother and I attended Murray State as both students and athletes, and we met our spouses on campus. We have deep roots here, and it is incredibly meaningful for our family to give back to our community and show our gratitude for the many wonderful opportunities and memories we’ve had because of Murray State University.”
Director of Athletics Nico Yantko expressed his gratitude, stating, “Words cannot describe the impact of this transformational investment from the Dill Family. We are excited for what this gift will allow us to achieve and look forward to sharing our plans for future success in the coming months.”
Murray State has already embarked on more than $2 million in capital projects, including the newly announced weight room renovation in Roy Stewart Stadium and the men’s basketball locker room renovation. Over the past 18 months, the university has completed projects such as the Baseball/Softball Performance Center, upgrades to football team spaces, and new LED lights in the CFSB Center. The Racer Club continues to play a crucial role in supporting student-athlete scholarships, the general operating budget, and facility enhancements, ensuring the competitive success of Murray State Athletics programs and student-athletes.
