While Matthew H. Fleeger is widely recognized for his business acumen as President and CEO of Gulf Coast Western, his impact extends far beyond the corporate world through thoughtful and personal philanthropy. Driven by his own experiences and a genuine desire to create positive change, Fleeger has developed a philanthropic approach that combines strategic giving with hands-on involvement.
“Because I have experienced cancer myself, I have a survivor’s compassion for the impact cancer has physically and spiritually on adults,” Matthew H. Fleeger has shared. “I cannot imagine the strength and courage required for a child to endure this disease.”
This personal connection to cancer has inspired one of Fleeger’s most significant philanthropic partnerships and shaped his overall approach to giving back.
Supporting Children Battling Cancer: The Sadie Keller Foundation
At the heart of Matthew H. Fleeger’s philanthropic work is his partnership with the Sadie Keller Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing joy to children battling cancer. The foundation was started by Sadie Keller when she was diagnosed with leukemia at just seven years old, with the mission of providing toys to hospitalized children during the holiday season.
As a cancer survivor himself, Fleeger formed a special connection with the foundation’s purpose. Through Gulf Coast Western, he donated $25,000 to support Keller’s efforts and became an official sponsor of the foundation’s annual fundraising gala, known as the “Yellow Ball.”
However, Fleeger’s involvement goes beyond financial support. He and his Gulf Coast Western team take a hands-on role in the foundation’s “Sadie’s Sleigh” gift-giving program, personally collecting and donating thousands of toys for children in hospitals. Even during challenging times for the oil industry, Fleeger maintained this commitment, noting: “It was a difficult year for oil companies, but that pales in comparison to the difficulties faced by children with cancer.”
The impact of this partnership has been substantial, with Sadie’s Sleigh now delivering tens of thousands of toys to hospital-bound children each year. Keller herself commented on the company’s support: “That was such an amazing experience. Everywhere I looked around the lobby, it was like Nintendo Switches, Xboxes, bicycles, and amazing gifts that anyone would want.”
Broad-Based Community Support
Matthew H. Fleeger’s philanthropy extends well beyond his work with the Sadie Keller Foundation. Through the Fleeger Family Foundation and Gulf Coast Western, he supports a diverse range of charitable organizations addressing various community needs.
In the healthcare sector, Fleeger contributes to renowned institutions such as Shriners Hospitals for Children and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, both leaders in treating pediatric illnesses. He also provides support to the American Cancer Society, furthering his commitment to cancer research and treatment.
Addressing broader social challenges, Fleeger donates to the North Texas Food Bank to combat hunger in his local community. He supports The Family Place, a Dallas organization aiding survivors of domestic violence, as well as Magdalene House, which helps women who have escaped trafficking or abuse rebuild their lives.
Education remains another focus area of Fleeger’s philanthropy. He supports the Parish Episcopal School, helping fund hands-on STEM programs that prepare students for careers in technical fields. His educational philanthropy reflects a belief in investing in the next generation and providing opportunities for young people to develop valuable skills.
Transformative Support for SMU Athletics
As an alumnus of Southern Methodist University (class of 1987), Matthew H. Fleeger has maintained strong ties to his alma mater through significant philanthropic support. In 2024, Fleeger and his wife, Candee Richmond Fleeger (SMU class of 1986), made headlines with their $2 million donation to SMU’s Atlantic Coast Conference Competitiveness Campaign.
The couple’s contribution was strategically allocated, with $1.2 million designated for the Weber End Zone Complex and $800,000 supporting the campaign’s broader objectives. This thoughtful approach to giving helped SMU surpass its initial $125 million campaign goal, ultimately raising $159 million to position its athletic programs for success in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
“I’m thrilled with the future direction of SMU Athletics,” Fleeger stated. “There’s never been a better time to be a Mustang, and I’m proud to support our transition to the ACC.”
Rick Hart, SMU’s Director of Athletics, acknowledged the significance of Fleeger’s support: “We are deeply grateful to Matt Fleeger and the Fleeger Family Foundation for their extraordinary generosity. Their commitment not only propels us to our campaign goal but also significantly enhances our facilities and resources, positioning SMU Athletics for sustained success in the ACC.”
A Philanthropic Philosophy
What distinguishes Matthew H. Fleeger’s approach to philanthropy is the personal connection he brings to his giving. Whether supporting cancer patients based on his own experience, helping his alma mater reach new heights, or addressing community needs through local organizations, his philanthropic work reflects a genuine desire to create meaningful impact rather than simply writing checks.
Fleeger’s philanthropic engagement demonstrates how business success can be leveraged for broader community benefit. By combining strategic financial support with personal involvement and a focus on causes close to his heart, he exemplifies how corporate leaders can apply the same vision that drives their business success to creating positive social change. Through the Fleeger Family Foundation and Gulf Coast Western’s charitable initiatives, Matthew H. Fleeger continues to transform lives and strengthen communities, creating a legacy that extends far beyond the energy industry.