A volunteer group that raises money for athletic scholarships has announced a pledge of $1 million over five years to support scholarships for student-athletes at the University of Connecticut.

The UConn Club Inc. raises money for The UConn Club General Athletic Scholarship Fund, which currently stands at over $2 million. This fund provides educational assistance for student-athletes participating in any of UConn's 23 intercollegiate sports. Fund-raising activities sponsored by the club include annual golf outings, a silent auction and a student-athlete awards dinner.

"We are pleased to continue and enhance our support of UConn Athletics and its student-athletes," said Marylee Oleksiw, president of The UConn Club Board of Directors, who announced the pledge. "This significant pledge is simply a reflection of our mission to assist UConn's student-athletes in enjoying an outstanding college experience, both academically and athletically."

She added that she hopes the commitment will be a catalyst for other significant gifts, as the Division of Athletics and the University plan for an upcoming capital campaign.

"We owe a great deal of thanks to The UConn Club for taking the lead in raising funds to support the young men and women in our athletic program," said Lew Perkins, director of athletics.

"I commend The UConn Club and its dedicated Board of Directors for making a pledge which will assist UConn Athletics not only today but for many years to come."