In support of Boise State Athletics’ Lyle Smith Society campaign, a leadership giving society to support student athletes, 68 donors pledged more than $8.2 million in philanthropic support this fiscal year, including a $1 million anonymous gift that will improve student-athletes’ on-field and academic experiences.
“Our donors have helped provide one of the nation’s premier student-athlete experiences, preparing them for excellence not just in their athletic endeavors, but for the rest of their lives,” said Boise State President Marlene Tromp. “The Lyle Smith Society provides an additional opportunity to help shape the future of Bronco Athletics, and Boise State University.”
Named after the longtime Boise State coach and athletic director, the society’s goal is to increase philanthropic revenues for Boise State Athletics, supporting operational needs and capital priorities. Funds from the society position Bronco student-athletes for greater success in the classroom, in competition, and in life after graduation.
Boise State football head coach Andy Avalos and his wife, Summer, also joined the Lyle Smith Society this year.
“The support of our donors and fans is what makes this place so special, and what helps us provide an elite student-athlete experience,” Andy Avalos said. “Having played here and graduated from here, what we’re building for the next generation of Broncos is incredible and important to us.”
The Lyle Smith Society membership begins with a minimum pledge of $25,000 over a five-year period or donating an annual cash gift of $25,000 or more. Boise State Athletics establishes its top priorities, but Lyle Smith Society members have the flexibility to designate their gift to the fund of their choice. These funds include the Bronco Nation Fund, Women’s Sports Fund, Sports Enhancement Funds, Endowment, capital projects, BroncoLife and Sports Performance, Health and Wellness.
The operational needs of Boise State Athletics are great. The department spends on average $41,174 annually to support each Boise State student-athlete. These funds include expenses like food and housing, travel, tuition and fees, books, nutrition, academic services and more. Endowed scholarships for student-athletes are a giving opportunity as well.
Other funding opportunities and areas of need that society members may support include capital projects such as the East Side of Albertsons Stadium project, renovations to the Hall of Fame and the indoor golf center.
Donations to Boise State University qualify for a 50% tax credit — a reduction in the actual tax you owe. If you itemize your taxes, a donation to Boise State allows income tax deductions on both your state and federal returns, plus a 50% Idaho income tax credit.
