Houston Launches Nantz Leadership Society
7/9/2025 3:00:00 PM | General, Cougar Pride
Hello friends! Want to have a voice? Join the Nantz Leadership Society
HOUSTON – Hello friends. University of Houston Athletics is excited to unveil its new philanthropic giving society, the Nantz Leadership Society (NLS), named in appreciation for Cougar Men's Golf alumnus and legendary, Emmy-award winning sports broadcaster Jim Nantz ('81).
Announced on Wednesday, the society will directly impact the experience of Houston student-athletes and act as a driving force in the University's pursuit of Big 12 Conference and national championships, with its members deeply committed to advancing the athletics department.
"Since arriving at Houston, I've had the privilege of getting to know Jim and have witnessed firsthand his passion and unwavering support for University of Houston Athletics," said Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Eddie Nuñez. "The Nantz Leadership Society is a fitting tribute to an individual whose name is synonymous with excellence and whose unwavering support has meant so much to our institution. We are deeply grateful to Jim for his enduring commitment to his alma mater and for allowing us to honor his legacy in this meaningful way. Through this society, our donors will not only help transform the lives of our student-athletes but also carry forward the tradition of excellence that Jim has exemplified throughout his remarkable career."
The Nantz Leadership Society will recognize individuals who make commitments of $25,000 or more payable over five years. There will be six giving tiers, ranging from $25,000 to $1 million-plus, each offering unique experiences throughout the athletic year, from game day activities to exclusive excursions with various programs. These major gift contributions are above and beyond donations for football and men's basketball seating, as well as unrestricted annual gifts to Cougar Pride.
"Friends, I am so excited about the direction of our Athletics Department," Jim Nantz said. "As the landscape of college sports changes, here at the University of Houston, we are well positioned to reach new heights — especially with your support and YOUR VOICE.
As someone who has covered college athletics nationally for 40 years, I've seen how the most successful programs have risen to the top. In all cases, it starts with a committed alumni base and its desire to financially support the University's Athletics Department. It's part of their culture. And it starts at a young age. We are at an important crossroads.
As proud members of the Big 12, we are in the big leagues now, and we must contend for conference and national championships. There are no limits. We have the ability to win and win big. Please consider having your voice heard. Let's come together and take our beloved Cougars to the next level. The future is ours to shape."
With the creation of the society, members will be invited to exclusive stewardship opportunities and invitations to private events.
"The Nantz Leadership Society will set Houston Athletics up for long-term success while also providing an elite experience for our donors," Senior Associate AD for Development/Executive Director of Development Alvin Franklin said. "It will have an immediate impact on providing our student-athletes with the resources needed to compete for both Big 12 and national championships."
The society will focus on three pillars of giving excellence – the AD Excellence Fund, Student-Athlete Success Fund and Facilities Initiatives.
The AD Excellence Fund will address strategic opportunities and initiatives across the Athletics Department by providing philanthropic dollars to assist in the areas of greatest need.
The Student-Athlete Success Fund provides support for the overall experience and holistic growth of our student-athletes. This fund enhances the areas of Student-Athlete Development, Sports Medicine & Performance, Nutrition, Mental Health, and Community Engagement.
The Houston Athletics Facilities Initiative will bolster our ability to continue to set the standard for premier athletic facilities. It is imperative for the department to deliver a first-class experience for our students.
In recognition of their generous support, members of the society will gain access to exclusive stewardship opportunities personalized to achieve first of its kind alignment with Houston Athletics. The society will be structured and awarded based on six distinct tiers of generosity, all of which are tax-deductible.
STAY CONNECTED
Fans can receive updates by following @UHCougars on X, formerly Twitter, and catch up with the latest news and notes on the team by clicking LIKE on the team's Facebook page at HoustonAthletics or on the team's Instagram page at houstoncougars.
Announced on Wednesday, the society will directly impact the experience of Houston student-athletes and act as a driving force in the University's pursuit of Big 12 Conference and national championships, with its members deeply committed to advancing the athletics department.
"Since arriving at Houston, I've had the privilege of getting to know Jim and have witnessed firsthand his passion and unwavering support for University of Houston Athletics," said Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Eddie Nuñez. "The Nantz Leadership Society is a fitting tribute to an individual whose name is synonymous with excellence and whose unwavering support has meant so much to our institution. We are deeply grateful to Jim for his enduring commitment to his alma mater and for allowing us to honor his legacy in this meaningful way. Through this society, our donors will not only help transform the lives of our student-athletes but also carry forward the tradition of excellence that Jim has exemplified throughout his remarkable career."
The Nantz Leadership Society will recognize individuals who make commitments of $25,000 or more payable over five years. There will be six giving tiers, ranging from $25,000 to $1 million-plus, each offering unique experiences throughout the athletic year, from game day activities to exclusive excursions with various programs. These major gift contributions are above and beyond donations for football and men's basketball seating, as well as unrestricted annual gifts to Cougar Pride.
"Friends, I am so excited about the direction of our Athletics Department," Jim Nantz said. "As the landscape of college sports changes, here at the University of Houston, we are well positioned to reach new heights — especially with your support and YOUR VOICE.
As someone who has covered college athletics nationally for 40 years, I've seen how the most successful programs have risen to the top. In all cases, it starts with a committed alumni base and its desire to financially support the University's Athletics Department. It's part of their culture. And it starts at a young age. We are at an important crossroads.
As proud members of the Big 12, we are in the big leagues now, and we must contend for conference and national championships. There are no limits. We have the ability to win and win big. Please consider having your voice heard. Let's come together and take our beloved Cougars to the next level. The future is ours to shape."
With the creation of the society, members will be invited to exclusive stewardship opportunities and invitations to private events.
"The Nantz Leadership Society will set Houston Athletics up for long-term success while also providing an elite experience for our donors," Senior Associate AD for Development/Executive Director of Development Alvin Franklin said. "It will have an immediate impact on providing our student-athletes with the resources needed to compete for both Big 12 and national championships."
The society will focus on three pillars of giving excellence – the AD Excellence Fund, Student-Athlete Success Fund and Facilities Initiatives.
The AD Excellence Fund will address strategic opportunities and initiatives across the Athletics Department by providing philanthropic dollars to assist in the areas of greatest need.
The Student-Athlete Success Fund provides support for the overall experience and holistic growth of our student-athletes. This fund enhances the areas of Student-Athlete Development, Sports Medicine & Performance, Nutrition, Mental Health, and Community Engagement.
The Houston Athletics Facilities Initiative will bolster our ability to continue to set the standard for premier athletic facilities. It is imperative for the department to deliver a first-class experience for our students.
In recognition of their generous support, members of the society will gain access to exclusive stewardship opportunities personalized to achieve first of its kind alignment with Houston Athletics. The society will be structured and awarded based on six distinct tiers of generosity, all of which are tax-deductible.
STAY CONNECTED
Fans can receive updates by following @UHCougars on X, formerly Twitter, and catch up with the latest news and notes on the team by clicking LIKE on the team's Facebook page at HoustonAthletics or on the team's Instagram page at houstoncougars.
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