East Lansing, Michigan — michigan state A $401 million gift from Greg and Don Williams supports the university and athletic department’s fundraising initiatives, marking the largest donation to the school and one of the richest in college sports history.
“His investment in both the university and the future of Spartan Athletics reflects a bold, shared vision for excellence and innovation,” university President Kevin M. Guskiewicz said Friday. “This moment will have a profound impact on generations of Spartans, and we are honored by their trust in MSU.”
The gift includes $290 million toward the athletic department’s $1 billion fundraising campaign, which was launched this week and promoted by former Spartans star and Basketball Hall of Famer Magic Johnson.
The donation boosts Michigan State’s teams into the new era of college athletics, particularly its struggling football program.
Athletic Director Jay Batt Coach Jonathan Smith was fired Sunday with a $33 million purchase and hired former Northwestern To coach Pat Fitzgerald Incentive-laden, five-year, $30 million contract Earlier this week.
Greg and Don Williams are also giving $100 million, in addition to the $401 million commitment, to Spartan Ventures, a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation established to raise funds for the athletic department.
“In today’s evolving college athletics landscape, this is an important day in the history of Michigan State athletics,” Batt said. “Greg and Don’s commitment will provide the resources needed for new levels of competitive excellence and student-athlete opportunities while charting a new path for the Spartan Athletics enterprise.”
Greg Williams is the co-founder and CEO of Acrisure, a financial technology company that purchased the naming rights to pittsburgh steelers‘Stadium formerly known as Heinz Field.
“This commitment reflects our belief that we must give back to our community … and the place we call home,” Greg and Dawn Williams said in a statement. “Not only is MSU the face of our community, but the health and well-being of East Lansing depends on a thriving and successful MSU.”
