Founder's Circle member Ernie Kuehne ('66) donates $1 million to UNT Athletics

President V. Lane Rawlins speaks with members of UNT's Founder's Circle. Read more in the North Texan.

Founder's Circle


Founder's Circle Grand staircase in the Hurley Administration Building

The Founder's Circle at the University of North Texas recognizes the leadership demonstrated by our most generous supporters. Their significant gifts ensure that the university stands on a firm foundation and has the opportunity to increase its impact through scholarship and relevant research.

The Founder's Circle was created in 2010 to pay tribute to donors who have lifetime contributions totaling $250,000 or more. Founder's Circle members share UNT's vision, to be recognized for its educational, intellectual, research, public service and cultural achievements.

Recognition in The Founder's Circle is based on cumulative lifetime giving to UNT*. Active pledges, cash gifts, gifts-in-kind, and irrevocable planned gifts are used to determine the appropriate recognition levels.

* Refers to gifts made to the Denton campus.


"North Texas gave a young man an opportunity to grow and create a path for his future. I am humbled and honored that I can give back to help others do the same. I challenge every North Texas alum and fan to step up."

— Ernie Kuehne, McConnell Society member

The Kendall Society

$250,000 - 499,999

Kendall Society

Kendall Society members have access to the following Founder's Circle privileges:

  • Annual donor functions with the President
  • Special acknowledgment from the President for achieving Kendall Society status
  • Special invitations to exclusive events
  • Acknowledgment from the President for all gifts

Learn about the society's namesake, J.S. Kendall.


The Matthews Society

$500,000 - 999,999

Matthews Society

Matthews Society members enjoy the same privileges as Kendall Society members, plus:

  • Annual Matthews Society lunch with the university president

Learn about the society's namesake, J.C. Matthews.


The McConnell Society

$1 million or more

McConnell Society

McConnell Society members enjoy all Founder's Circle privileges plus:

  • Annual McConnell Society dinner with the university President
  • Mean Green Concierge Card
  • Custom-bound annual reports for personal endowments
  • Complimentary tickets and special invitations to select UNT events

Learn about the society's namesake, W.J. McConnell.



For information about the Founder's Circle, please contact Kim Wendt at 940-565-3689.