The eagle has become the living symbol of Auburn University's spirit and pursuit of excellence. Bald eagles have wingspans of up to eight feet. They have been recorded at 44 miles per hour at level flight and can approach speeds of up to 100 miles per hour when plunging toward their prey.

Yet the eagle's real power comes from its talons. An eagle's talons can clutch its prey with up to 1,000 pounds of pressure per square inch in each foot - while in flight.

Without its talon, the eagle could not survive.

The same can be said of the members of the Talon Society.

The Talon Society was created to recognize donors who have contributed at least $500,000 to Auburn Athletics in outright gifts, outside of ticket priority. This prestigious society includes 34 members who have given a total of approximately $30 million to Auburn Athletics. Nine of those members have given at least $500,000 separately to both athletics and academics.