Video: Jeff Hendrix' $1 Million Gift Announcement
The official presentation took place Sunday during halftime of the Middle Tennessee-Georgia Tech women’s basketball game at historic Murphy Center.
“I want to personally thank the Hendrix family for this incredible gift, and as president I want them to know how appreciative we are for their generosity and help in moving the University forward,” said President Sidney McPhee. “I have been impressed with Jeff since the day I met him and you could never tell he was not an alumnus of this University because of his high level of support. He gave so generously without ever expecting anything in return. He has left a great legacy that our student-athletes will benefit for years to come. He will always be a Blue Raider and his family will forever be a part of this University.”
A partner and president of Enterprise Electric for many years, Hendrix joined the BRAA in 2004 and quickly began making an impact. A mainstay at home events, he was also a regular on the road, at bowl games, and NCAA Tournaments.
"Jeff Hendrix was one of the great treasures of not only Blue Raider athletics but the entire University," Director of Athletics Chris Massaro said. "This gift is just another example of his extraordinary leadership and the love he had for Middle Tennessee. This financial contribution will not only benefit our 17 sports programs, but the entire institution. Floyd Stadium does more than just host athletic competitions; it is a gathering place for the University community and there will not be a better place for fellowship than the Jeff Hendrix Stadium Club.”
In 2009, Middle Tennessee dedicated the “Jeff Hendrix Golf Performance Center” at Champions Run where he was driving force behind the funding and construction. Hendrix also played key roles in the lighting of the Dean A. Hayes Track/Soccer Stadium, the expansion of the outdoor suites in Floyd Stadium, funded and provided power for RV row at Greenland Drive, and also served on the Capital Campaign Committee for the new baseball stadium. His gift and work on the lights at Reese Smith Field jump started Phase 1 of the baseball campaign.
Hendrix was also the presenting sponsor and chair of the annual Shooting for Scholarships Clay Target Shoot for six years. The event has raised over $150,000 in revenue for the BRAA.
“Jeff was someone I knew who wanted to be involved and make a difference with our student-athletes,” said Associate AD Alan Farley. “Not a day goes by that I do not see the impact Jeff Hendrix has had on this campus. He always gave willingly and unselfishly to help others. Jeff is truly missed and will never be forgotten.”
On May 12, 2011, Jeff lost his 13-month battle with cancer at the age of 53. He is survived by his wife Kay, and children, Bennie, Emily (2007 graduate of MTSU), and Timi.
“Jeff never liked the recognition but I know he would be very proud of this day and the fact all of his kids were there to see it,” said Kay. “Jeff and I have always loved being a part of Blue Raider athletics and we will always cherish the friendships we have made over the years.”
