Larry Gies extended his generosity in a major way. The University of Illinois alum and businessman made a $100 million donation to the school's athletic department, who will rename the Fighting Illini's football stadium in his family's honor. The school made the announcement on Tuesday with Gies' gift as the largest in Illinois athletics history.
Gies made the donation in memory of his late father, Larry Gies Sr., who served in the United States Army. Illinois' football stadium will now be known as Gies Memorial Stadium and will continue to honor soldiers like Gies' father.
"Sports is how most people first experience the University of Illinois -- it's the front door of the amazing house we are building," said Gies. "I fully support [athletic director] Josh's [Whitman] mission and the culture he has built at Illinois Athletics. Illini sports moments bring our Orange & Blue community closer together, and I am so looking forward to the memories we create together in the coming years."
Gies made his name in business as the founder and CEO of Madison Industries, one of the world's largest and most successful privately held companies. In 2017, he donated $150 million to the school's business college, which was renamed in his honor.
"This gift is the result of years of thought-provoking conversations and is the continuation of a long-term partnership with Larry that will benefit generations of student-athletes and advance this program to even greater heights," Whitman said. "I am grateful to Larry for his trust and confidence, and we are excited to honor him, and his veteran father, by placing their family name alongside that of our beloved Memorial Stadium."
The growing need for outside funding comes as other athletic departments around the country are entering into the revenue-sharing era. The Fighting Illini are in position to contend at a high level in both football and basketball. Each program has been put on the map as of late.
Bret Bielema is fresh off a 10-win season and currently has his team ranked No. 9 in the AP Top 25 poll. They look to be one of the top teams in the Big Ten outside of top-ranked Ohio State. Additionally, Illinois basketball programs have found success extending into March.
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