ISSUED: 3 December 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: Hans Fogle
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — Shepherd University Athletics received tremendous support during this year’s Thankful to Be a Ram campaign.
The annual fall fundraiser, launched by the Shepherd University Athletic Club (SUAC) in 2020, invites Ram Nation to support their favorite teams through online giving and social media sharing.
Each year, SUAC sets month-long fundraising goals for each team, rewarding the top performers with bonus prizes.
Shepherd University Director of Athletics Carrie Bodkins said it is humbling to see the community rally behind the Rams.
“We are incredibly thankful for our fans, donors, and alumni whose unwavering support makes everything we do possible,” Bodkins said. “Your commitment fuels the success of our student-athletes and programs, and we are grateful every day for the strength of the Shepherd family. Once a Ram, always a Ram.”
Shepherd’s athletic teams competed to raise funds for their programs as part of the initiative. Baseball topped the list this year after raising $19,150. Softball followed with $10,563, and cheerleading rounded out the top three with $2,650.
The 2025 campaign was one of the most successful yet, raising $45,083 from 413 donors—90 percent of its $50,000 goal.
Contributions from the campaign directly impact student-athletes by funding scholarships that help cover tuition and academic expenses, ensuring they can focus on both athletic and academic success. In addition to scholarships, donations sustain and improve facilities, help purchase uniforms and gear, and provide travel opportunities that allow Shepherd teams to compete at the highest level.
These investments strengthen the overall student-athlete experience and help maintain the university’s tradition of excellence.
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