TERRE HAUTE, Ind. — Indiana State University Athletics announced today a program-changing $500,000 commitment from Troy and Melissa Woodruff to the Crossroad of Champions initiative in support of the Sycamore Men's Basketball program. The investment represents a significant step forward in strengthening the program's competitive position amid the rapidly evolving landscape of college athletics.

Troy Woodruff, a 1998 Indiana State University graduate and current member of the Indiana State University Board of Trustees, and his wife Melissa have been steadfast supporters of the institution for many years. Their generosity outside of the men's basketball program has most recently included the naming of the Benny E. Woodruff Cancer Research Lab and the RQAW classroom in the Bailey College of Engineering and Technology in 2022, reinforcing their deep belief in Indiana State's academic and athletic mission.

"This gift is about impact," said Troy Woodruff. "Melissa and I believe strongly in Indiana State University, in the direction of the institution, and in the leadership guiding it forward. We have great confidence in President Mike Godard, Director of Athletics Nathan Christensen, and Head Coach Matthew Graves, and we believe this level of investment is necessary to ensure our men's basketball program continues to thrive."

"We are sincerely grateful to Troy and Melissa Woodruff for their continued leadership and generosity in support of Indiana State University," said University President Mike Godard. "Their significant investment in the Crossroad of Champions initiative will directly strengthen the Sycamore Men's Basketball program and have a lasting impact on the future of our storied program and the lives of the student athletes who represent Indiana State."

The Woodruffs understand the current realities facing college athletics and view this commitment as both an investment and a call to action.

"College athletics is changing quickly, and meaningful support is more important than ever," Woodruff added. "We hope this gift challenges others to evaluate their own level of involvement and consider how they might elevate their support to help Indiana State compete at the highest level."

Director of Athletics Nathan Christensen emphasized the significance of the Woodruffs' commitment.

"Troy and Melissa's generosity is truly program-changing," Christensen said. "Their belief in our vision, our leadership, and our student-athletes sends a powerful message. This investment not only strengthens our men's basketball program, but also sets a standard for what is possible when Sycamores come together."
 
Crossroad of Champions is devoted to driving revenue for student-athletes and positioning Indiana State Athletics to have great success in the next chapter of college athletics.

The Woodruffs' gift directly supports Indiana State Men's Basketball, providing critical resources to retain and attract top level student athletes, but also strengthen program sustainability, and position the Sycamores for long-term success.

Indiana State University and Sycamore Athletics extend their sincere gratitude to Troy and Melissa Woodruff for their leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to Indiana State.

For more information on Crossroad of Champions and opportunities to support Indiana State Men's Basketball, visit https://www.crossroadofchampions.com/

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