Date of Award
Spring 2013
Degree Type
Professional Project - Restricted
Degree Name
Masters in Leadership Studies
Department
College of Professional Studies
Abstract
This mixed method study analyzes the motives of females who have donated to the Marquette University Athletic Department over the course of an eight year timeframe, July 2005 through June 2012 (years that Marquette University has been a member of the BIG EAST). With over 1,800 surveys sent via email, 531 usable surveys were returned, providing valuable information. Results suggest the primary motives include: providing opportunities for student-athletes; promoting the University as a whole; to retain priority points/required donation for men’s basketball tickets; to support the whole athletics department/non-revenue sports; to pay it forward; family tradition; pride of school; love of Marquette basketball; to support female student-athletes; entertainment/camaraderie/social; to gain access/opportunity/stay connected; and because they are a fan of athletics. This study will help the Marquette Athletics Department gain a better understanding and general knowledge of the motives of its female donor base and how they can best cultivate them.