Larry Gies donates $100 Million to rename Illinois Memorial Stadium in honor of his father

Larry Gies, a University of Illinois alumnus and well-known philanthropist, has pledged $100 million to the school’s Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA). The record-setting gift will rename Memorial Stadium as Gies Memorial Stadium in honor of his late father, Larry Gies Sr.

, a U.S. Army veteran. It is the largest gift in DIA history and among the biggest single donations ever made to a college athletics program.The announcement comes as Illinois athletics continues to rise on the national stage, with strong recent performances in football, men’s basketball, and women’s basketball. University officials say the gift will have both symbolic and practical impact—cementing the stadium’s role as a tribute to veterans while ensuring continued investment in Fighting Illini student-athletes.“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,” Gies said in a statement. “With this investment, we can ensure that this stadium continues to be a place where their sacrifices will never be forgotten.”

Larry Gies' gift blends family, legacy, and the future of Illinois Athletics

The $100 million donation by Larry Gies marks a new chapter in the 101-year history of Illinois’ football stadium. Pending approval by the Board of Trustees on September 18, 2025, the venue will be renamed Gies Memorial Stadium.

Gies made the gift in memory of his father, a U.S. Army veteran whose service shaped his family’s values. University leaders emphasized that the stadium will now stand as both an athletic landmark and a tribute to American service members.Chancellor Charles L. Isbell Jr. called the gift “extraordinary,” while Athletics Director Josh Whitman described it as the product of a long-term partnership. “Larry Gies is a visionary leader who invests in people and organizations that impact the world around them,” Whitman said.The donation comes at a time when Illinois athletics is enjoying renewed success. Football tied a school record with 10 wins in 2024 and won its first New Year’s Bowl game since 1989. Men’s basketball reached the Elite Eight in 2024 and has logged six straight 20-win seasons, while women’s basketball has returned to the NCAA Tournament with multiple wins under coach Shauna Green.

Gies is no stranger to supporting Illinois. In 2017, a $150 million gift led to the renaming of the Gies College of Business.

He is also known for supporting education and military causes nationwide, earning the 2023 Semper Fidelis Award from the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation.As founder and CEO of Madison Industries, Gies has built one of the largest privately held companies in the world. His donation ensures that Illinois’ stadium will carry his family’s name and legacy forward, linking Illini athletics with a message of service and gratitude.