UConn AD: New State Tax Credit Program A 'Win-Win' For Donors, Huskies

STORRS, CT — University of Connecticut Director of Athletics David Benedict called the state's new tax credit program a "win-Win" for both donors and the school.

Here is an open letter from Benedict distributed Friday:

Dear UConn Nation,

The start of the 2025-26 academic year has generated many points of pride for the legions of fans who cheer for the white and blue. Currently, four UConn teams are ranked in the national polls: Women’s Basketball, Men’s Basketball, Men’s Ice Hockey and Women’s Ice Hockey. Twelve UConn student-athletes from our fall teams have been named to their respective All-BIG EAST teams. UConn Football wrapped up its home schedule undefeated, looks for its ninth win of the season tomorrow, and is bowl eligible for the third time in four years. Field Hockey concluded its season at the NCAA Tournament Elite 8, and Men’s Soccer is the No. 13 overall NCAA Tournament seed and will host a Second Round game this Sunday at 2:00 p.m. As we often boast, “It’s a great time to be a Husky.”

We previously communicated about a new, innovative tax credit program made possible by our state legislators. This initiative is truly a “win-win”, where donors enjoy credits to reduce state tax obligations while providing UConn Athletics with funding to help sustain our championship tradition.

Contributors to this pioneering program earn tax credits equal to 50 percent of qualifying donations to UConn Athletics. So far, the response from Husky enthusiasts has been extremely positive. Individuals and companies alike have stepped up to participate.

As we approach the end of the 2025 calendar year, when many people contemplate philanthropic decisions, we encourage you to consider the unique benefits of this state tax credit program. If you have questions and/or want to discuss a donation, please contact Jack Hayes in our Husky Athletic Fund at jhayes@foundation.uconn.edu prior to December 31. Jack can answer your questions and also assist in processing a gift which will help our Huskies and earn you favorable state tax credits.

With the approach of the Thanksgiving holiday, we want to warmly convey our heartfelt appreciation to the many loyal donors and fans who make UConn Athletics a priority in their lives. Our dedicated and generous supporters power the engine which drives our ongoing successes, and we couldn’t possibly preserve our greatness without you. From all of us in Storrs, we wish you and your family a peaceful Thanksgiving holiday. Thank you for the ongoing support that you provide to our nearly 600 student-athletes.

Go Huskies!

Sincerely,

David Benedict

Director of Athletics