Mizzou Athletics Welcomes Evin Beck
Mizzou Athletics is excited to announce that Evin Beck will join as Senior Associate Athletics Director and Executive Director of the Mizzou Athletics Fund starting in February. His role will focus on improving fundraising efforts to support athletics at Mizzou, especially in the Southeastern Conference.
Laird Veatch, Mizzou’s Director of Athletics, emphasized that Evin’s experience in fundraising will be invaluable. “Evin’s proven leadership will help drive philanthropy forward,” he said. Veatch also mentioned the community will be eager to welcome Evin and his family.
Blair DeBord, Executive Athletics Director and Chief Revenue Officer, echoed this sentiment. He believes Evin’s background in collegiate athletics will bring fresh ideas to Mizzou’s fundraising strategy. “His vision is crucial for enhancing the student-athlete experience and achieving competitive success,” DeBord added.
Before Mizzou, Beck was at Vanderbilt University as Associate Athletics Director. He led significant fundraising campaigns and played a key role in a $300 million initiative to enhance Vanderbilt Athletics.
“I’m thankful for this opportunity,” Beck shared. “Mizzou is on an upward trend, and I look forward to working with staff, donors, and alumni to build strong relationships.”
Beck’s journey in collegiate athletics includes roles at several universities, such as Auburn, Georgia, and Duke. He has a master’s degree in sports administration and was a football player at Washburn University.
Mizzou also introduced Jarett Gerald as the new Assistant Athletics Director for Major Gifts. Gerald comes from Duke University and has experience in major gifts fundraising. He previously worked at the NCAA and the University of South Carolina.
In addition to these new hires, Mizzou Athletics promoted team members to strengthen its revenue strategy:
- Austin Collard is now Associate Athletics Director for Development.
- Eryn Samuels has become Assistant Athletics Director for Development & Strategic Initiatives.
- Connor Jordan is now Assistant Athletics Director for Revenue Generation.
DeBord noted that these additions demonstrate Mizzou’s commitment to developing a top-notch revenue team.
Fundraising in collegiate sports is evolving. According to a 2022 report from the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics, college athletics revenue has been increasing steadily, mainly through donations. This trend is crucial for funding essential programs and improving facilities.
As Mizzou Athletics aims to elevate its fundraising game, the community looks forward to seeing the positive impact these new and promoted leaders will have. For more information on the Mizzou Athletics Fund, visit MAFMizzou.com.
