I believe in my Country, because it is a land of freedom and because it is my own home, and that I can best serve that country by “doing justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with my God.”

David Mattox has been cheering Auburn to victory his whole life.

Whether it was as a cheerleader during the perfect 2004 football season or currently as a senior major gifts officer, Mattox has been a crucial part of Auburn’s success for years.

Mattox, who earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing from Auburn in 2005 and his MBA from AUM in 2008, has worked for Auburn Advancement — the fundraising wing of the university — for 18 years, including the past 15 in the College of Engineering.

And he’s left a lasting impact on this college that will be felt for generations.

During his time at Auburn, Mattox has secured more than $60 million for the university.

In FY19, Mattox set the university record by securing 43 major gifts in a year.

Two years later, he passed that record with 45 major gifts secured.

Why does he do it?

“It’s the relationships with the donors,” Mattox said. “While we all love Auburn and want what’s best for the university, our job is all about being that point of contact to reconnect alumni with the university through what they are passionate about. From there, we want the alumni to form and have a relationship with their college dean, the president or whoever can relate and help them put their time, talent or treasure to the benefit of both the alumni and Auburn.”