EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — UTEP Athletics is getting some help from the El Paso business community as it transitions to the Mountain West Conference in July 2026.
UTEP announced Monday, Dec. 9 that the Woody and Gayle Hunt Family Foundation has pledged $2.5 million to support UTEP Athletics.
“This transformative gift will play a pivotal role in ensuring UTEP’s competitiveness on and off the field as it enters a new era of regional rivalries and athletic excellence,” the University of Texas at El Paso said in a news release announcing the gift.
“Transitioning to the Mountain West Conference is a game-changer for UTEP and the El Paso community,” UTEP President Heather Wilson said. “While this move brings tremendous opportunities, it also comes with transition costs. We are deeply grateful to the Hunt Family Foundation for stepping forward with this extraordinary leadership gift. Their generosity reflects their unwavering commitment to the success of our students and our city.”
The donation serves as a “cornerstone of UTEP Athletics’ comprehensive efforts to strengthen all men’s and women’s sports programs, upgrade facilities, and ensure operational readiness ahead of the conference transition,” UTEP said.
Josh Hunt, president of the Woody and Gayle Hunt Family Foundation, said: “The Mountain West Conference will elevate UTEP’s visibility and competitiveness, while energizing fans and inspiring community pride. This is not just an investment in athletics; it’s an investment in UTEP’s bright future and the economic vitality of El Paso. As proud Miner fans, we’re honored to help UTEP reach new heights and showcase what our university and community can achieve.”
“The Hunt family continues to invest in enhancing the quality of life in El Paso, impacting our community in a positive way. What’s good for UTEP and Miner Athletics is good for our community and our citizens,” UTEP Vice President and Director of Athletics Jim Senter said. “The Hunt family shares in our excitement of joining the Mountain West Conference and renewing our long-standing regional rivalries. It’s important to all of us that we put our best foot forward and put the best possible product on the playing field in 2026. Through the generosity of the Hunt family, UTEP Athletics will be able to build the adequate financial resources to begin a thrilling new era in July of 2026.”
Read: Read More