University of Oklahoma Athletics
OU Athletics Launches 1895 Trust
November 02, 2023 | Athletics
Philanthropic giving society to support transformative student-athlete experiences and world-class facilities
NORMAN — The University of Oklahoma Athletics Department announced Wednesday the creation of the 1895 Trust, a new membership society within the Sooner Club that recognizes those who have made philanthropic commitments aimed at enhancing the OU student-athlete experience. This new model adds to the Sooner Club's existing annual membership levels. Serving as the engine of OU Athletics, the 1895 Trust builds upon the foundation of OU's carefully constructed tradition of excellence.
"1895 marked the first year of athletics competition at the University of Oklahoma, so it's fitting that we launch this new, ambitious membership society in honor of when the Sooner story began," said OU Vice President and Athletics Director Joe Castiglione. "The 1895 Trust celebrates those who have invested for decades, setting the standard for philanthropic support of our Sooners. Our history of excellence in athletics simply wouldn't be possible if not for the loyalty and selflessness of generations of donors. As we look forward to how we can continue to impact the lives of our student-athletes, we know this vehicle – the 1895 Trust – will fortify us in ensuring our programs are best positioned to be successful."
Sooner Club members who contribute $250,000 or more in lifetime philanthropic support to OU Athletics will be recognized as a member of the 1895 Trust. Members whose lifetime philanthropic support currently meets or exceeds this giving threshold will automatically be recognized as 1895 Trust participants. Gifts considered for the Trust are commitments above and beyond required seating gifts. Philanthropic commitments can be paid over a three-to-five-year period, providing flexibility to the donor, and Championship Points associated with the gift amount are provided to the donor's OU Athletics account up front.
1895 Trust members will receive first priority for upcoming away, Red River Rivalry, postseason and championship games, as well as new, exclusive experiences that give members an inside look at OU Athletics. A total of 179 Sooner Club members will serve as charter members.
Philanthropic commitments also play a large role in the university's "Lead On" campaign. With a goal of $2 billion, the campaign is the most ambitious in OU history. OU Athletics' portion focuses on providing a transformative student-athlete experience and building world-class facilities. Since July 2020, Sooner Club members have generously contributed $250 million, surpassing one-third of its total goal. The campaign extends through 2027.
An investment in OU Athletics is an investment in champions as the Sooner Club provides foundational resources for 21 sport programs and the nearly 600 student-athletes who don the Crimson and Cream . Philanthropic commitments can be designated toward areas of focus, including a facility project, student-athlete scholarships, the Inspiring Champions Fund and the Women of Championship Excellence Fund.
Individuals or businesses interested in learning more about the 1895 Trust or becoming a member should contact the Sooner Club at (405) 325-8000 or visit TheSoonerClub.com/1895 .
"1895 marked the first year of athletics competition at the University of Oklahoma, so it's fitting that we launch this new, ambitious membership society in honor of when the Sooner story began," said OU Vice President and Athletics Director Joe Castiglione. "The 1895 Trust celebrates those who have invested for decades, setting the standard for philanthropic support of our Sooners. Our history of excellence in athletics simply wouldn't be possible if not for the loyalty and selflessness of generations of donors. As we look forward to how we can continue to impact the lives of our student-athletes, we know this vehicle – the 1895 Trust – will fortify us in ensuring our programs are best positioned to be successful."
Sooner Club members who contribute $250,000 or more in lifetime philanthropic support to OU Athletics will be recognized as a member of the 1895 Trust. Members whose lifetime philanthropic support currently meets or exceeds this giving threshold will automatically be recognized as 1895 Trust participants. Gifts considered for the Trust are commitments above and beyond required seating gifts. Philanthropic commitments can be paid over a three-to-five-year period, providing flexibility to the donor, and Championship Points associated with the gift amount are provided to the donor's OU Athletics account up front.
1895 Trust members will receive first priority for upcoming away, Red River Rivalry, postseason and championship games, as well as new, exclusive experiences that give members an inside look at OU Athletics. A total of 179 Sooner Club members will serve as charter members.
Philanthropic commitments also play a large role in the university's "Lead On" campaign. With a goal of $2 billion, the campaign is the most ambitious in OU history. OU Athletics' portion focuses on providing a transformative student-athlete experience and building world-class facilities. Since July 2020, Sooner Club members have generously contributed $250 million, surpassing one-third of its total goal. The campaign extends through 2027.
An investment in OU Athletics is an investment in champions as the Sooner Club provides foundational resources for 21 sport programs and the nearly 600 student-athletes who don the Crimson and Cream . Philanthropic commitments can be designated toward areas of focus, including a facility project, student-athlete scholarships, the Inspiring Champions Fund and the Women of Championship Excellence Fund.
Individuals or businesses interested in learning more about the 1895 Trust or becoming a member should contact the Sooner Club at (405) 325-8000 or visit TheSoonerClub.com/1895 .
Energy Partners Commercial Spot
Tuesday, October 28
Sooner Sports Talk - 10/27/25
Monday, October 27
The Huddle - 10/27/25
Monday, October 27
Sooner Sports Talk - 10/20/25
Monday, October 20
