Lee Athletics Set for Third Annual Give Day

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CLEVELAND, Tenn. – The Lee University Athletic Department will host its third annual Give Day on Thursday, April 23.  The  Developing Champions in the 423 campaign is a 24-hour online fundraising initiative, inviting donors, alumni, parents, staff, and friends to invest in the continued growth of Lee student-athletes in the classroom, in their sport, in their faith,and in the community.  Supporters may designate their gift to a specific program or contribute to the department as a whole. Every donation directly enhances the student-athlete experience, supporting scholarships, facility improvements, staffing, team travel, equipment, and resources for mental health and leadership development. These investments ensure Lee Athletics continues to set the standard in the Gulf South Conference and NCAA Division II.  “Our student-athletes are committed to excellence in everything they do, and Give Day is our chance to fuel that commitment,” said Cassidy Brinkley, Associate AD for External Operations. “Whether you’re a Lee alumnus, community member, long-time Flames fan, or a friend of the program, your support means the world to our student-athletes and gives them the resources to continue to pursue their dreams.”  Since joining NCAA Division II in 2015, Lee Athletics has established itself as a national leader. The Flames have claimed multiple Gulf South Conference All-Sports Trophy titles and have ranked among the top 25 programs nationally in the Learfield Directors’ Cup standings in each of the past five years. 

In the classroom, Lee student-athletes have raised their cumulative GPA from 3.11 in 2015 to 3.52, surpassing both the NCAA Division II (3.16) and Gulf South Conference (3.10) averages. Beyond competition, over 50 student-athletes participated in leadership development programming last year, while multiple teams engaged the local community through service initiatives and special events supporting nonprofit organizations across Bradley County. 

“Give Day isn’t just about one day of giving—it’s about building momentum for the future of Lee University Athletics, noted Athletic Direcotr John Maupin. “The collective support we receive propels our vision to compete at a high level while continuing to invest in the holistic development of our student-athletes. We are thankful for everyone who plays a role in making that vision a reality.”

 Donations can be made by clicking HERE.  For more information about Lee Athletics Give Day – Developing Champions in the 423, or to learn about becoming a matching donor, please contact cbrinkley@leeuniversity.edu.