Amid an economic downturn, the Razorback Foundation has continued to see growth in members and funds, according to an Arkansas news release today.

The Razorback Foundation is the private fund-raising arm of the Arkansas athletic department. It’s rare that we’re given exact numbers for funds since it is not subject to Freedom of Information Act requests, so the UA must be pretty proud of its recent jump in members and funds.

Since November 2008, Razorback Foundation membership increased nearly 200 to 10,587 and its annual fund jumped 6.75 percent to $11.8 million. During that time, Bobby Petrino became a member, donated $100,000 and every head coach from the 19 athletic programs also joined up with the foundation. And don’t forget about the senior and executive staff inside the athletic department. They, too, are now members of the Foundation.

Petrino’s donation, by the way, is believed to be the largest among a sitting coach ever at the UA. Here’s more from the UA news release:

“We are extremely grateful to our Razorback Foundation members for providing the support and resources for our 19 sports programs,” says Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Jeff Long. “Recognizing the financial realities of some Razorback supporters, our foundation team led by Executive Director Harold Horton reached out to encourage those who had the means to increase their giving, to help off-set those impacted by the economy. Countless supporters responded to the call and the net result was a growth in the annual fund. We appreciate all of those who have made an investment in the lives of our nearly 460 student-athletes enabling them the opportunity to succeed in the classroom and in athletic competition.”

The annual fund saw an increase of 6.75 percent in 2009, increasing from $11,072,245 to $11,819,370. Arkansas head football coach Bobby Petrino led the way in November when he became a Broyles-Matthews Platinum member, making a personal $100,000 commitment to the Razorback Foundation. …

Membership in the Razorback Foundation increased from 10,390 in November 2008 to 10,587 in June 2009. With four months remaining and the traditional football season new membership period approaching, the final number will likely climb even higher. …

The Razorback Foundation’s goal is ensuring the nearly 460 student-athletes at Arkansas have the equipment, facilities and overall support to achieve the goals of graduation and athletic achievement.

(Harold) Horton took over as executive director of The Razorback Foundation Inc. in fall 2008 and is joined by associate directors Sean Rochelle and Norm DeBriyn. Former University of Arkansas athletic director Frank Broyles also serves as a special fund raiser with the Razorback Foundation, Inc.

– Brandon Marcello