ARLINGTON – One of UT Arlington Athletics premier fundraising events of the year, Nancy's Night on Wednesday evening at Troy's inside Texas Live! raised $52,000 to benefit the Nancy Baker Endowed Scholarship, in addition to 24 other endowed UTA Athletics scholarship funds.
 
More than 200 supporters contributed to the successful event, which featured nearly 50 wide-ranging live and silent auction items, musical performances, cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and camaraderie with Maverick donors, fans, coaches and staff on a beautiful night.
 
"Last night was about celebrating and recognizing the endowed scholarship donors and their families who truly make a difference at UTA," stated Director of Athletics Jim Baker, who named Nancy's Night in honor of his late wife. "Our family is proud to join this group in committing to the future of our student-athletes through scholarships. It was a great night to be a UTA Maverick."
 
The evening began at 6 p.m. with light hors d'oeuvres before 'Tuff Son' took the stage for the first of two live musical acts. Baker then addressed the crowd and introduced many of UTA's head coaches who were in attendance prior to the live auction commencing. The evening concluded with local Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers tribute band 'Petty Theft' – featuring UTA alumnus and The Ticket personality Mike Rhyner – playing a 90-minute set.
 
"Nancy Baker was a champion of education, and last night honored her legacy of supporting student-athletes at UTA," added Deputy AD Russell Warren. "She would be proud of the difference we are making through endowed scholarships, and ultimately making an impact in the lives of our student-athletes."
 
In total, Nancy's Night has now raised approximately $350,000, closing in on the department's goal of $500,000 to make it the first fully-endowed scholarship in UTA Athletics history.
 
Nancy's Night was the kickoff event for one of UTA Athletics largest fundraising weeks of the year as today (Oct. 24, 1:30 p.m.) the annual Maverick Open golf outing will be held at the brand-new Texas Rangers Golf Club – the new Home of UTA Golf.
 
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