The couple’s gift continues a decades-long tradition of investing in student success and Elon’s iconic learning environment.
The $500,000 contribution from Trustee Vicky Hunt and Sam Hunt will fund strategic priorities in athletics, continuing a tradition of generous philanthropy at Elon that spans more than three decades.
The Burlington, North Carolina, couple said they are proud to invest in Elon athletics and the success of student-athletes, both in the classroom and in competition. Their recent gift is an effort to continue advancing Phoenix athletics under the leadership of Director of Athletics Jenn Stawley.
“We believe in the value of Elon athletics and its positive impact on the lives of our student-athletes,” the Hunts said. “Under Jenn’s leadership, the vision and plan established for athletics has elevated our program. Our plans are to continue supporting President Connie Book, Jenn Strawley and Elon in every way we can!”
Strawley thanked the Hunts for believing in the vision for Elon athletics.
“I am deeply grateful to Sam and Vicky for their long-time support of Elon athletics,” Strawley said. “Their generosity has allowed countless student-athletes to thrive both athletically and academically. I also appreciate the trust and belief they’ve shown in our vision. Their generous support of the Athletic Director’s Excellence Fund advances our priorities and continues to elevate Elon athletics.”
The impact of Vicky and Sam Hunt’s philanthropy can be seen across Elon’s campus and in the accomplishments of outstanding students.
The couple are among the university’s most generous and loyal donors, making gifts to name Hunt Atrium, a dynamic and spacious entry point to Founders Hall in the Innovation Quad, featuring open collaboration spaces and assembly areas, tiered bench seating and space for group events, guest speakers and receptions. Their gift to the IQ also endowed the Sam and Vicky Hunt Business Fellows Scholarship for top students in the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business.
The Hunts also contributed $1 million to name Phoenix Atrium in Slattery Center, Elon’s future health and wellness hub, and to provide additional funding for the Sam and Vicky Hunt Odyssey Scholarship, which the couple endowed in 2017 to assist students with significant financial need, including first-generation college students.
In addition to scholarships, the Hunts have contributed generously to the Phoenix Club and Elon Academy, the university’s successful college access and success program, and advanced Elon’s iconic campus with gifts to Hunt Softball Park, Schar Center and The Inn at Elon. The couple have also made a $3 million estate gift that in the future will create an endowment to fund scholarships.
Sam Hunt is the retired chairman and CEO of Atlas Lighting Products and Hunt Electric Supply Company in Burlington. He served four terms in the N.C. House of Representatives before being named Transportation Secretary in 1993. He went on to serve as President and Chairman of the N.C. Railroad from 1996-2002. In addition to her role in their businesses, Vicky Hunt has served on Elon’s Board of Trustees since 1997 and is actively involved with charitable work in her community.