(Minneapolis, MN) — The University of Minnesota athletic department experienced a significant revenue shortfall over the past year due to the pandemic. So, as a way to help rebuild some of the budget, the Golden Gopher athletic department is hosting a virtual “Week of Giving” this week. It is a fundraising campaign aimed at raising money to help fund the more than 300 athletic scholarships for which the department pays. Minnesota athletic director Mark Coyle says that is real money, nearly 14-million-dollars, that the department pays to the general campus office. Coyle says they are asking many people to step up this week, from long-time donors to new donors interested in funding a scholarship for the first time. In addition, all Gopher fans can take part in an on-line auction of some coveted Gopher memorabilia and fan experiences with all proceeds going to the “Week of Giving” campaign. For more information on how to donate and on the on-line auction, click here.
MNN sports director Mike Grimm spoke with Gopher athletic director Mark Coyle about the week:
