Rockhurst University hosted its annual RU Giving event on April 23, 2025, bringing the campus community together to raise funds in support of university-wide improvements. With more than 60% of students participating in athletics, according to Kirk Skoglund, director of institutional research, RU Giving placed a special emphasis on fundraising for athletic teams and campus-wide athletic initiatives.
One of the largest athletic efforts is the Bourke Field Challenge. Bourke Field’s turf, used by nearly every athletic program on campus, is in urgent need of replacement. Men’s and women’s lacrosse and soccer teams use the field for games and practices, while cross country, track and field, softball and baseball also utilize the space for training.
As of April 26, RU Giving had raised $78,115 toward the $235,000 goal to install new, high-quality turf, aiming to boost athlete safety, performance and campus pride.
Another key initiative is the men’s and women’s golf teams’ PuttView Challenge, which seeks to bring an indoor putting system to campus. Currently, the golf teams practice and compete off-campus at Sycamore Ridge Golf Course in Spring Hill, Kansas. Adding PuttView would offer athletes easier access to high-level training.
As of April 26, the teams had raised $1,850 toward their $30,000 goal.
Rockhurst baseball is also making strides. The team is fundraising for a new sound system at Loyola Park to enhance both the student-athlete and fan experience. The home field, first established in 2004, saw additions like dugouts and restrooms in 2016. A sound system upgrade will provide clearer communication for players and fans.
The baseball team had raised $18,742 of their $20,000 goal as of April 26.
The Rockhurst women’s volleyball team is working toward a milestone as well. They aim to receive 50 gifts to help fund their participation in the Ice Block Classic, a tournament hosted by the University of Alaska from Jan. 14–18, 2025.
As of April 26, the team had secured 31 of the 50 gifts needed.
Other athletic programs, including track and field, have already met their RU Giving goals. Donations for these teams will go toward training gear, practice space and essential equipment to keep Rockhurst athletes competitive.
While many athletic and campus-wide challenges remain open, every donation moves Rockhurst closer to its goals. To contribute to RU Giving 2025, visit https://engage.rockhurst.edu/portal/giving-day-celebrate-25?tab=Challenges.
