DAHLONEGA – On the heels of the most successful athletic year in school history, the University of North Georgia is excited to announce the launch of its newly branded fundraising strategy called the North Georgia Athletic Fund (NGAF). The campaign is an ambitious and comprehensive fundraising initiative that supports the institutional goal of building the most competitive and value-added NCAA Division II program in the country.

The NGAF introduces new initiatives, benefits and experiences for all alumni, fans, and friends who support the Nighthawks philanthropically. The Nighthawk Athletic Club (NAC), the annual Scholarship Golf Tournament, and sport-specific giving will continue to operate under the strategic umbrella of the NGAF.

The underlying mission of the NGAF has not changed and will only continue to grow and evolve thanks to the many generous supporters who make up the foundation of the Nighthawk Nation. As structured in previous years, the NGAF will remain focused on the culture of giving in support of Nighthawk excellence. Stakeholders who chose to give beyond introductory levels will experience a heightened level of stewardship and VIP opportunities.

In a shift from previous years, the NGAF focuses more on annual giving to the athletics fund in addition to sport-specific giving. The NGAF benefits have expanded to include official team apparel, event hospitality, premium experiences and reserved parking.
 
"The North Georgia Athletic Fund builds on our recent successes of which many individuals whose support and contributions made possible," said Director of Athletics Mary Rob Plunkett. "Together we will continue to build a legacy of excellence that, behind the foundational support of our donors, will propel us to new heights and solidify our place as the leader in NCAA Division II athletics." 

The North Georgia Athletic Fund organizes philanthropic efforts into a wide range of offerings catered to all levels of donors – priority giving, annual giving, scholarships, major gifts, sport-specific giving, corporate partnerships, capital projects and premium experiences - with introductory giving levels beginning at just $100.
 
It is the department's strategy to set aspiring "moonshot goals" for each of its 13 intercollegiate sports, and the North Georgia Athletic Fund's financial support is critical to reaching these benchmarks. The North Georgia Athletic Fund and its offerings has a underlying goal of strengthening connections within our communities, alumni, and supporters to set new standards and achieve greater success for Nighthawk Athletics.
 
"Nighthawk Athletics had a tremendous amount of success last year thanks in large part to the wonderful support of our donor base," stated Director of Development JT Horton. "The North Georgia Athletic Fund creates multiple options for our donors to engage. Whether it's a NAC membership with new benefit options, supporting our top priorities, athletic scholarships, sport-specific giving, major gifts or corporate sponsorships - there is something for everyone! It's a great opportunity for our donors to stay connected and help propel UNG to the forefront of Division II athletics."

Nighthawk fans are encouraged to browse the North Georgia Athletic Fund's new online home at NorthGeorgiaAthleticFund.com. Help grow the Nighthawk Nation and broaden our base by sharing the new NGAF mission with your former teammates, friends, family members, colleagues, etc. and encourage them to join the North Georgia Athletic Fund to ensure our student-athletes continue our bold forward path.