At USC Upstate, excellence is not just a goal—it's the Spartan standard. With the launch of the Athena Fund, the university is making a bold statement about its commitment to investing in the future of women's athletics. Named after the Greek goddess of wisdom and strength, the Athena Fund strives to position female student-athletes for success after their playing days.

With seven women's sports teams—basketball, cross-country, golf, softball, soccer, track & field, and volleyball—the Athena Fund provides critical scholarships, leadership development, and operational support to ensure that Spartan female athletes have every opportunity to succeed.

"This initiative embodies our commitment to empowering, inspiring, and uplifting our female student-athletes," said Associate AD for Development, Maddi Currier. "With the Athena Fund, we are investing in their sports performance and future as leaders both on and off the field. As the sports world continues to evolve with revenue sharing and NIL inequalities, investing in women's sports is more critical than ever."

Through the Athena Fund, USC Upstate ensures that financial barriers never stand in the way of promising athletes. Scholarships allow deserving student-athletes to excel in their sport while pursuing their academic dreams. Additionally, career development and leadership training programs help shape these athletes into future industry leaders, role models, and community changemakers.

"The Athena Fund is just the beginning of the growth surrounding our female student-athletes at USC Upstate," said Ali Skayhan, Head Women's Volleyball Coach. "As a department and university, we are making a statement about the importance of investing in women's athletics and ensuring we are on the right side of the needle as this new era unfolds. I am proud and excited to work alongside Maddi and the rest of our teams as we explore all of the Athena Fund possibilities and its undoubtedly lasting impact on our Spartans!"

The support of donors is crucial to building this foundation for long-term success. Every contribution, regardless of size, directly impacts Upstate's female student-athletes.

"The Athena Fund will position our women's sports teams for short- and long-term success," said Matt Martin, USC Upstate Athletic Director. "We are all in on building the fund to an elite level."

Undeniable. Unstoppable. Upstate.

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