Since completing him MBA from UT Permian Basin, Sammy Reed has wanted to give back and give someone else the opportunity to get their degree.  Once Reed found out about the Champions Fund, which is a scholarship fund where 100 percent of donations go directly to student-athlete scholarships, he knew it was a perfect match.

"I always wanted to give back," said Reed.  "Really wanted to give back to help a kid get a good education and advance their life."

Reed started donating to the Champions Fund, but didn't realize the impact he had on all the Falcon Athletic programs.

"The Champions Fund contributes to all sports," said Reed.  "I didn't realize it at first.  It helps basketball players, tennis players, football players, all the teams."

Over the years Reed has seen the growth of the University and the Athletics department.  Back when Reed completed his MBA, the department was just starting out and campus was much smaller.

"There were no sports initially when I came here.  By the time I finished we had transitioned to a four-year school and were just starting an athletics program," said Reed.  "Campus was basically the Mesa Building.  The library was on the second floor and that was about it.  I've seen some amazing changes.  The different programs like engineering and nursing have been huge in taking the school to a higher level."

Part of getting to that higher level has been the contributions to the Champions Fund, increasing the prestige of the Falcon athletic teams and educational programs at the same time.

"If you have an interest in sports, then the champions fund is a fantastic way to give.  You're giving a scholarship to someone that needs it and at the same time helping the program, school, and community along," said Reed. 

If you would like to donate to the Champions Fund or want additional information on how to get involved with Falcon Athletics you can click here or contact Lynn Andress at andress_l@utpb.edu.  All Champions Fund donations go towards student-athlete scholarships.