Matthew H. Fleeger: Oil Industry Leader and Philanthropic Force

From his early days watching his father build Gulf Coast Western to becoming a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, Matthew H. Fleeger has carved out an impressive legacy in both business and charitable giving. As the president and CEO of Gulf Coast Western, Fleeger has not only expanded his family's oil and gas empire but has also demonstrated a deep commitment to giving back to his alma mater and supporting meaningful causes.

A Legacy of Leadership

Following in the footsteps of his father, Thomas H. Fleeger, who founded Gulf Coast Western in 1970, Matthew Fleeger has transformed the company into a leading force in domestic oil and gas exploration. Under his leadership, Gulf Coast Western has expanded its operations across Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Colorado, earning an A+ grade and a five-star rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Before taking the helm at Gulf Coast Western, Fleeger proved his entrepreneurial prowess in other industries. In 1993, he founded MedSolutions, a medical waste management company that he successfully led until 2007. During the late 1990s, Fleeger demonstrated his business acumen further by acquiring and growing two tanning businesses: Palm Beach Tan, which became one of the most profitable indoor tanning bed franchises in the United States, and Mystic Tan, which grew to become the world's largest spray-on tanning booth franchise. Under his management, these ventures approached $100 million in revenue.

Navigating Industry Challenges

When Fleeger returned to Gulf Coast Western, he faced numerous challenges, including gas shortages, rapid technological developments, and economic uncertainty. His response was comprehensive and strategic: reducing corporate overhead, embracing new technologies, improving operational efficiency, and making shrewd investments in ventures like Orbit Energy Partners. His systematic overhaul of the company's administrative, operational, and strategic approach led to significant growth in both reach and profitability.

A Commitment to Education and Athletics

A proud 1987 graduate of Southern Methodist University, Fleeger has maintained strong ties to his alma mater. His recent $2 million contribution through the Fleeger Family Foundation, made alongside his wife Candee Richmond Fleeger (SMU '86), played a crucial role in SMU's Atlantic Coast Conference Competitiveness Campaign. The campaign, which ultimately raised $159 million, surpassing its initial goal of $125 million, will help position SMU Athletics for success as it transitions to the ACC.

Of the $2 million donation, $1.2 million was designated for the Weber End Zone Complex, with the remaining $800,000 supporting the campaign's broader objectives. This strategic investment in SMU's athletic facilities and resources demonstrates Fleeger's commitment to ensuring future generations of student-athletes have the tools they need to compete at the highest levels of collegiate sports.

Personal Battles and Philanthropic Vision

Fleeger's philanthropic work extends beyond his support for SMU. As a cancer survivor himself, he has shown particular dedication to helping children battling cancer through his partnership with the Sadie Keller Foundation. The foundation, started by Sadie Keller when she was diagnosed with leukemia at age seven, provides toys to hospitalized children during the holiday season. Through Gulf Coast Western, Fleeger donated $25,000 to support Keller's efforts and sponsors the foundation's annual fundraising gala.

A Balanced Approach to Success

While building his business empire and supporting charitable causes, Fleeger has also invested in personal ventures that reflect his business acumen. In Vail, Colorado, he and his wife undertook an ambitious $7 million renovation of their mountain-style stone home, transforming it into an 11,000-square-foot estate complete with six bedrooms, spacious living areas, and luxury amenities. The property's subsequent $32 million listing price made it one of the most expensive offerings in Vail's exclusive real estate market.

Looking to the Future

Matthew Fleeger's impact continues to grow through his leadership at Gulf Coast Western and his philanthropic initiatives. His support of SMU Athletics comes at a pivotal time as the university prepares for its transition to the ACC, with record-breaking season ticket sales at Ford Stadium reflecting the excitement surrounding this new chapter.

Through his various ventures and charitable works, Fleeger exemplifies how business success can be leveraged to create positive change in communities. His strategic vision, coupled with a genuine desire to give back, has established him as not just a successful business leader but as someone who understands the importance of using that success to benefit others.