US EditionIllinois Football Stadium Gets New Name After $100 Million Gift From Larry Gies
Larry Gies' $100 million gift honors his late Army veteran father and supports the university's athletic programs, marking the largest donation in Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics history.
- The University of Illinois announced a $100 million donation from alumnus Larry Gies on September 9, 2025, to rename Memorial Stadium as Gies Memorial Stadium.
- This gift received its significance due to Gies' prior philanthropic history and the stadium's 100-year legacy honoring U.S. armed services members, with official approval pending by the Board of Trustees on September 18, 2025.
- Larry Gies, CEO of Madison Industries, made the donation in memory of his late father, a U.S. Army veteran, while the football program recently achieved program-high 10 wins and its highest AP ranking since 2001 under coach Bret Bielema.
- Gies expressed that his contribution is meant to pay tribute to his father, a dedicated veteran, as well as to all individuals who have served or will serve in the military to protect the nation, highlighting the stadium as a lasting reminder of their sacrifices and commitment to freedom.
- The donation represents the largest in University of Illinois athletics history, highlighting Gies' vision to impact people and organizations and promising a lasting influence on Fighting Illini Athletics and its community.
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14 Articles
Associated Press News
Illinois' football home is now known as Gies Memorial Stadium after alumnus makes $100M donation
Illinois’ football stadium will be known as Gies Memorial Stadium after alumnus and philanthropist Larry Gies made a $100 million donation to the school’s athletic department.
UI alum Larry Gies makes historic donation
On Tuesday it was announced that Larry Gies made the largest donation in history to the Illinois Division of Intercolliegate Athletics. “This gift is about honoring my father, a true patriot, and every brave soul who has worn or will wear the uniform to defend our country,” said Gies. “With this investment, we can ensure...
Illinois renames its football venue Gies Memorial Stadium after $100 million donation from alumnus
CHAMPAIGN — The Illinois athletic department announced the largest donation in its history Tuesday: a $100 million gift from alumnus Larry Gies. In recognition, the Illini will rename their nearly 102-year-old football stadium Gies Memorial Stadium. Gies is the founder and CEO of Chicago-based…
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