FGCU Night at the Nest

Excitement is growing for Florida Gulf Coast University Athletics’ Night at the Nest Gala, set for Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, at Alico Arena. With more than half of the available tables already reserved, this year’s event is poised to continue the remarkable success of last year’s record-breaking gala, which raised over $1 million to support Eagle student-athletes.

Guests will enjoy a refined culinary experience by Crave Culinaire, a curated live auction of exclusive experience packages, robust silent auction and an in-depth dialogue on how nutrition fuels athletic success.

“Every day, our Division I student-athletes train, compete and represent FGCU at the highest level of collegiate sports,” said Colin Hargis, FGCU director of athletics. “To reach their full potential, proper nutrition isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. When our athletes have access to the right fuel, they’re not only stronger on the field but also more focused in the classroom and better prepared for life after graduation. This year, Night at the Nest is focused on rallying our community to elevate that level of support here at FGCU.”

That investment builds on FGCU’s proud tradition of athletic and academic excellence. FGCU Athletics fields teams in 15 NCAA Division I sports, providing opportunities for more than 265 student-athletes. With more than 60 conference regular-season titles in their Division I era (2007-present), the Eagles continue to perform at a championship level across all sports. Off the field, FGCU student-athletes consistently post some of the highest GPAs and Academic Progress Rates in the nation, while contributing thousands of volunteer hours throughout Southwest Florida.

By combining championship-level performance, academic achievement and community impact with enhanced nutrition resources, FGCU Athletics is ensuring its student-athletes have the foundation to succeed as competitors today and leaders tomorrow. Research shows that proper fueling reduces injury risk, speeds recovery, and supports mental focus and emotional wellbeing – making donor support through Night at the Nest more critical than ever.

Reservations are available for $3,000 per table of 10. Limited individual tickets are available for $300 each. Select sponsorship and underwriting opportunities remain for community leaders who want to champion student-athlete success. For additional details on available sponsorships, contact Madison Lord at mlord@fgcu.edu or 239-590-7107.

For more information, event updates and to reserve a spot, visit fgcu.edu/natn.

The mission of Florida Gulf Coast University Athletics is to empower student-athletes to become transformative leaders and champions in the classroom, in competition and in the community. The Florida Gulf Coast University Foundation supports this mission by securing and managing philanthropic resources for scholarships, athletic excellence and university-wide initiatives that benefit both student-athletes and the broader community.