- June 04, 2026
- By Thomas Lenneberg
A new seven-figure gift from one of Maryland Athletics’ most generous benefactors will allow the department to advance its mission by providing unrestricted operational funds and—uniquely—new staffing resources for fundraising efforts.
The commitment from Barry Gossett, through the University of Maryland College Park Foundation, directly supports Maryland Athletics and University Relations. This holistic approach embodies the university’s comprehensive commitment to Maryland Athletics and its role in uplifting the campus. With four weeks still to go in the current fiscal year, Athletics has raised $37.3 million, its second-highest total ever in philanthropic support, and the highest in more than a decade.
Gossett’s gift supports Forward: The University of Maryland Campaign for the Fearless, a $2.5 billion fundraising initiative in support of expanding access to UMD's top-tier education, accelerating groundbreaking research and building stronger communities
“I’ve had the privilege of watching Maryland Football and Maryland Men’s and Women’s Basketball each win national championships and I want that privilege again, not only for myself but for all generations of Terps fans,” Gossett said. “We have a rich championship culture, but in today’s landscape it will take all of us to not only build on the past, but enhance it. Let’s go win some national championships together.”
Gossett ’62 has been a member of the Terrapin Club since 1971 and has supported an array of priorities and projects over the years, including the Gossett Football Team House, the Barry and Mary Gossett Center for Academic and Personal Excellence, Jones-Hill House and the Barry P. Gossett Basketball Performance Center. He serves on the University System of Maryland (USM) Board of Regents and is a past chair of its foundation and of the University of Maryland College Park Foundation. He is the retired chairman and CEO of Baltimore-based Acton Mobile Industries, suppliers of mobile offices, construction trailers and commercial modular buildings.
“Barry Gossett’s impact on Maryland Athletics is extraordinary, and this latest gift is another incredible example of his generosity, leadership and belief in our future,” said Jim Smith, Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics. “In today’s collegiate athletics landscape, support from leaders like Barry is essential to providing our student-athletes with the resources they need to succeed and helping all of our programs compete at the highest level, particularly in the areas of student-athlete development, facilities, and player recruitment and retention. His transformational commitment will strengthen Maryland Athletics for years to come.”
Maryland Athletics aims to raise at least $350 million as part of the Forward campaign, elevating four priorities: Elevate a championship culture; empower young people to realize their full potential; mold tomorrow's leaders today; and foster success through community. To learn more about how to participate in the Forward campaign, contact the Terrapin Club at 30-314-7020 or tclub@umd.edu.