University of Connecticut Athletics
UConn Athletics Development generates financial support for all University of Connecticut student-athletes with the responsibility to facilitate, promote, and enhance academic and athletic experiences along their Husky journey and beyond. As the costs of operating collegiate athletic programs continue to rise, generating revenue has become more critical than ever for universities.
WHY GIVE?
Expenses related to scholarships, coaching salaries, facility upgrades, team travel, recruiting, and athletic department operations have increased significantly. Additionally, evolving factors such as inflation, expanding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, and the growing costs of maintaining compliance with NCAA regulations have places additional financial strain on athletic departments.
Investing in high-quality facilities, cutting-edge training resources, and top tier staff is essential to attracting and retaining elite student athletes in an increasingly competitive landscape.
To sustain success and remain competitive, we must develop diverse revenue streams beyond ticket sales and media rights. Without sufficient revenue generation, athletic programs risk falling behind in student-athlete recruitment, development, and overall competitiveness. Supporting UConn Athletics through donations ensures that student-athletes receive the resources they need to excel on and off the fields. Philanthropic donations, endowed scholarships, charitable bequests, appreciated stock, and a host of other avenues are ways to make your mark at the University of Connecticut.
OUR PILLARS
A UCONN STORY: LARRY HANDLER
For nearly six decades, one constant has remained at the University of Connecticut: Lawrence Handler ’67 (BUS) just keeps giving back.
It all started in 1963, when a city boy from New Jersey arrived in Storrs and was captivated by UConn’s rolling hills and tight-knit community.
Eager to immerse himself in campus life, Handler joined the marching band, where he found friendship and belonging almost instantly. That love for his alma mater only deepened over time, laying the foundation for a lifetime of generosity.
But beyond the band, another passion took hold—UConn Athletics.
A lifelong sports fan, Handler quickly became a dedicated supporter of UConn’s teams. During his undergraduate years, he attended nearly every home game, missing only one due to illness. His love for UConn sports never wavered, and for decades, he has remained a devoted season-ticket holder—supporting Men’s Basketball for about 40 years, Women’s Basketball for 30 years, and Football since the days of Memorial Stadium in Storrs.
For questions about how to get involved in the Husky Athletic Fund, click the link below to get in contact with our staff via email or telephone.
