June 21, 2007

Boston College Director of Athletics Gene DeFilippo announced Thursday that the most recent fundraising year yielded record results with more than $19 million donated to support the Athletics Department. This represents more than a 26% increase the previous year. Fifty-two donors made commitments of $100,000 or more during the year (June 1, 2006 - May 31, 2007).

"Given the ever-rising costs in salaries and scholarships, I could not be happier with the results of the last year," DeFilippo said. "I want to thank each and every donor who chose to support BC Athletics this year. These 4,800 donors are directly responsible for our success athletically, academically and spiritually. Ten years ago we were raising about $3 million annually and we have increased to $19 million. Unfortunately this has been necessary to keep pace with increasing expenses and the cost of excellence in intercollegiate athletics."

About the Flynn Fund:

Few priorities are as vital to the mission of Boston College Athletics as financial aid. BC will offer approximately 272 athletic scholarships this year with a price tag of nearly $13 million. Scholarships, along with salaries, are the largest annual expenses to the Athletics Department. The scholarships would not be possible without the private support of alumni, parents and friends.

In addition to funding scholarships, the Flynn Fund has supported countless facilities improvements over the years. The football program moved into the $27 million Yawkey Athletics Center in 2005. This 72,000-square-foot facility, which also houses the Office of Learning Resources for Student-Athletes, was the first building on the Boston College campus to be funded entirely through private support.

2006-07 Flynn Fund Highlights:

-$19 million donated

-4,800 donors

-52 commitments of $100,000 or more

-Donors were invited to a breakfast with the football team before the spring game

-Donors received an invite to an exclusive pre-season basketball practice

-More than 1,400 donors were reached via phone by student-athletes thanking them for their support

-Donors participated in BC's first ever donor-based seating program in men's basketball and football

Become a Donor in 2007-08 - Boston College supporters can show their dedication to BC Athletics by making a gift to the Flynn Fund. All gifts from June 1, 2007 - May 31, 2008 will be counted in our next year's total. With your help, $20 million is within reach. Help make your impact on our student-athletes today by going to www.bc.edu/give (choose Flynn Fund).