Southern Methodist University Athletics recently celebrated a significant milestone, surpassing its $125 million fundraising goal for its Atlantic Coast Conference Competitiveness Campaign. Among the key contributors to this achievement was Matthew H. Fleeger, an SMU alumnus and President and CEO of Gulf Coast Western, whose $2 million donation helped push the campaign over its target.

“I’m thrilled with the future direction of SMU Athletics,” said Matthew H. Fleeger. “There’s never been a better time to be a Mustang, and I’m proud to support our transition to the ACC.”

The campaign ultimately raised $159 million, far exceeding its initial goal. Fleeger’s contribution included $1.2 million earmarked for the Weber End Zone Complex and $800,000 for the general fund, demonstrating his strategic approach to philanthropy.

From Family Business to Industry Leader

Matthew H. Fleeger’s journey in the energy sector began with strong foundations. Following in the footsteps of his father, Thomas H. Fleeger, who founded Gulf Coast Western in 1970, Matthew has transformed the company into a prominent player in the oil and gas industry.

Before taking the helm at Gulf Coast Western, Fleeger established himself as a successful entrepreneur in various industries. In 1993, he founded MedSolutions, a medical waste management company that he grew and eventually sold in 2007 for approximately $59 million. During the late 1990s, he also ventured into the tanning industry, acquiring and growing two businesses – Palm Beach Tan and Mystic Tan – into major franchises that approached $100 million in revenue under his management.

When Fleeger returned to Gulf Coast Western, he faced numerous challenges including fluctuating oil prices and changing market conditions. His response was comprehensive and strategic: reducing corporate overhead, embracing new technologies, improving operational efficiency, and making calculated investments in ventures such as Orbit Energy Partners.

Under his leadership, Gulf Coast Western has expanded its operations across Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Colorado, earning an A+ grade and five-star rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Philanthropy Driven by Personal Experience

Matthew H. Fleeger’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond his support for SMU Athletics. As a cancer survivor himself, he has directed significant support toward the Sadie Keller Foundation, which works to bring toys to children battling cancer during holiday seasons.

“Because I have experienced cancer myself, I have a survivor’s compassion for the impact cancer has physically and spiritually on adults… I cannot imagine the strength and courage required for a child to endure this disease,” Fleeger has stated regarding his support for the foundation.

Through Gulf Coast Western, Fleeger donated $25,000 to the Sadie Keller Foundation and sponsors its annual fundraising gala. His team also takes a hands-on role in the foundation’s “Sadie’s Sleigh” toy drive, personally collecting and donating thousands of holiday gifts for children in hospitals.

Beyond his work with the Sadie Keller Foundation, Fleeger supports numerous other charitable organizations, including Shriners Hospitals for Children, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the American Cancer Society, the North Texas Food Bank, and the Magdalene House.

Leadership Philosophy and Business Approach

At the core of Matthew H. Fleeger’s success is a leadership philosophy built on transparency, integrity, and innovation. He emphasizes open communication with both his team and business partners, which has helped Gulf Coast Western maintain its stellar reputation in the industry.

“Retaining good people requires transparency, honesty, integrity, and creativity. I was very open and communicated to my team just how committed I was to the future of the company,” Fleeger has said, describing his approach to leadership during challenging periods.

This leadership style has positioned Gulf Coast Western as a respected player in domestic oil and gas exploration, offering partners a way to invest in energy projects with a team that emphasizes due diligence and shared success.

As SMU Athletics enters its inaugural season in the ACC with record-breaking ticket sales and enhanced facilities, the legacy of Matthew H. Fleeger’s generosity will continue to benefit student-athletes and strengthen the university’s competitive standing, demonstrating how business success and community investment can go hand in hand.

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