TUCSON, Ariz. — Arizona Athletics has received a transformative $4.4 million gift from the estate of alumnus and longtime supporter Paul Muscenti ('58), establishing an endowed scholarship to benefit Wildcat student-athletes across all sports. 

"Paul's generosity will ensure that generations of student-athletes have the opportunity to thrive academically and athletically at the University of Arizona," said Desirée Reed-Francois, R. Ken Coit Vice President and Director of Athletics. "We are grateful for his lifelong devotion to the Wildcats and proud to honor his legacy through this endowed scholarship." 

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, and raised in Phoenix, Muscenti graduated from the University of Arizona's College of Business Administration in 1958. To help finance his education, he coached youth teams in football, basketball, and softball—an early expression of his passion for athletics and mentoring young people. 

Muscenti went on to a distinguished career as a banker in Phoenix and, for more than 40 years, was a devoted Arizona Athletics supporter and fixture at Wildcat football games. He also gave back through leadership and service with civic and alumni organizations, reflecting his deep commitment to the University of Arizona and the Tucson community. 

The endowed scholarship created by Muscenti's bequest will provide broad-based support for Arizona student-athletes, reflecting his deep belief in the value of higher education and athletics. 

Through his extraordinary generosity, Muscenti joins a distinguished tradition of alumni and supporters whose gifts sustain and strengthen Arizona Athletics' mission to graduate leaders and win championships. 

Arizona Athletics will celebrate Paul Muscenti's legacy during an upcoming Wildcats' home football game.