COLUMBIA, Mo. — The University of Missouri Department of Athletics has received a generous philanthropic gift from longtime benefactor Audrey J. Walton to fund significant enhancements to Mizzou’s Audrey J. Walton Track and Field and Soccer Stadium. Walton’s extraordinary gift, one of the 10 largest gifts in Mizzou Athletics history and the largest dedicated to support Olympic sports, will transform the facility that has carried her name since it opened nearly three decades ago, furthering her legacy of support for Mizzou student-athletes and women’s sports.
Since its opening in 1996, the Audrey J. Walton Track and Field and Soccer Stadium has been a cornerstone for Mizzou Athletics, hosting countless events while providing a venue for both track and field and women’s soccer student-athletes. Walton’s latest contribution will provide a complete renovation of the outdoor track surface and subsurface enabling Mizzou Athletics to host outdoor track and field competitions, along with a new natural grass soccer playing field and field subsurface.
“I’ve always believed in the power of college athletics to impact the next generation of Tigers — and I am especially proud to support programs that empower young women and men to compete and succeed,” Walton said. “Building championship programs in the Southeastern Conference starts with a ‘Will to Win.’ I am honored to invest in that unwavering ‘Will to Win’ by supporting our track and field and women’s soccer programs so they can compete at the highest level in the SEC. I greatly look forward to seeing the project completed for the betterment of Mizzou Athletics.”
“Mrs. Walton’s passion for Mizzou and her support of our student-athletes is truly remarkable,” University of Missouri Director of Athletics Laird Veatch said. “I am incredibly grateful for the 25-year relationship I’ve had with Mrs. Walton and her family. She is one of the most genuine and caring people I have ever known. Her generosity has already left an indelible mark on our programs, and this gift ensures that future generations of Tigers will benefit from first-class facilities that bear her name.”
“Having had the privilege of working closely with Audie and her family over the years, I am continually inspired by her vision and generosity,” University of Missouri Deputy Director of Athletics and…
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