The Eastern Michigan University Department of Athletics had a record-setting 2015-16 season with its well documented success both on the field and in the classroom. The success has not gone unnoticed in the community with sizable growth recorded in charitable contributions and corporate sponsorships to support EMU's 21 varsity sports.In total, donations and corporate sponsorships were up 46.5 percent from the 2014-15 athletic season."We are grateful for the tremendous support and contributions from our donors and corporate sponsors," said EMU Vice President/Director of Athletics. "The growth in both these areas is indicative of not just the hard work by our external team but the belief in what we are building at Eastern Michigan Athletics. We are thankful for their support, genuine relationships and commitment to help our revenues and donations grow which allow us to enhance the experience for our student-athletes."Eagles Pride, the fundraising arm for athletics, made history in 2015-16 – thanks to the increased support of loyal EMU fans. Reaching its highest point in 27 years with 1,316 donors, Eagles Pride members increased their total contributions by 45 percent from the previous year. These contributions enhance Eastern Michigan's scholarships, academic aid and training resources."Momentum is building to support EMU student-athletes," added, EMU's Associate AD for Development. "Our external relations and development team is grateful to all our donors for their generosity. Our growth is a testament that our loyal base is increasing their support and new people are getting behind the Eagles."EMU partnered with IMG College in 2014 to manage and market all advertising and sponsorship inventory. In the second year of the relationship, Eastern Michigan IMG Sports Marketing saw a 48 percent increase in the number of corporate partners. Due to that, sponsorship revenue increased by 31 percent from the year prior.IMG College, a division of IMG, is the nation's leading collegiate marketing agency, representing more than 200 of the nation's top collegiate properties, including the NCAA and its 89 championships, major conferences and many of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the country.To make a tax-deductible contribution or to become a corporate partner, please call 734.487.1050.