Friday, Feb 14, 2025 • Jeff Caplan : contact

Alumnus and former quarterback Michael Baylor ('70 BBA, Accounting) has made the largest unrestricted pledge in the history of The University of Texas at Arlington athletics department.

Baylor’s contribution marks a significant milestone for support of the University's pursuit of excellence across its intercollegiate athletics programs. An unrestricted pledge allows funds to be used where they are most needed, supporting student-athletes and programs throughout the athletics department.

“UTA provided the education that helped me become a CPA, and this is my way of giving back and saying thank you,” Baylor said. “Football was a big reason I came to UTA, and the best part was the lifelong friendships I made with my teammates.”

Baylor arrived on campus in 1965 and quickly established himself as a talented student-athlete. He became a three-year starter at quarterback and set several school passing records. He was named the Offensive Most Valuable Player of the 1967 Pecan Bowl, a 13-0 victory over North Dakota State on a freezing day in Abilene.

After graduating, Baylor became a CPA and built a successful 37-year career at PricewaterhouseCoopers.

“We are very appreciative of Michael Baylor’s extraordinary generosity and dedication to UTA Athletics," said UTA Athletics Director Jon Fagg. "This remarkable gift will have a lasting impact on our student-athletes, coaches and entire athletics department."

Baylor’s gift reflects his unwavering support for UTA Athletics, providing UTA student-athletes state-of-the-art resources and opportunities to excel both on the field and in the classroom.

Baylor was inducted into the UTA Athletics Hall of Honor in 1987 and received the Distinguished Alumni Award in 2007.

“Michael Baylor loves UTA and believes in the direction we’re going in Athletics” said Ira Childress, senior associate athletics director for development. “We’re incredibly thankful for his extraordinary gift."