K-State fans continue to be the largest source of revenue for the athletics department. Private gifts from Ahearn Fund members, including the National Leadership Circle, along with season and single-game ticket purchasers will provide nearly 53% of the 2011-12 department budget. The record $58.04 million budget for FY2012 includes $7.02 million for student-athlete scholarships to be paid to the university.
The remaining portion of Ahearn Fund contributions, along with capital support donations and ticket revenues, are strategically invested in providing a world-class experience and competing for league championships.
This investment includes support of the new Basketball Training Facility, the east-side view level restroom facilities, replacing the field turf inside Bill Synder Family Stadium, seating improvements at Ahearn Fieldhouse for volleyball, and enhancements and renovation to the equestrian program and facilities.
In addition, general university funding for Kansas State Athletics will begin to decrease form the current $1.526 million, which represented 3% of the FY2011 budget. In FY2012, this direct university support will decrease by more than 33% to $1 million, followed by reductions to $750,000 in FY2013 and $350,000 the following year.
Effective with FY 2015, K-State Athletics will no longer receive direct university support, allowing these dollars to be used to meet critical needs in Kansas State University's academic programs.
