Kansas has received an unprecedented $300 million gift from donor David Booth, a development that ranks among the largest single gifts in the history of college athletics.
Booth, an alumnus who earned a business bachelor’s degree in 1968 and an MS the following year at Kansas, went on to earn an MBA from the University of Chicago. He now chairs Dimensional Fund Advisors, a company he co-founded with Chicago classmate Rex Sinquefield. This generous act adds to Booth’s long-standing support for KU athletics, including a prior $9 million gift in 2004 to fund Booth Family Hall of Athletics at Allen Fieldhouse and a later $50 million contribution to renovate the football stadium, which was named in his honor. The facility is officially referred to as the David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium.
Recent renovations to the stadium were completed, with Kansas’ football program reaping the benefits of the upgrades. Head coach Lance Leipold praised the project, noting the work was done in a first-class manner. He described the new facility as a major step forward, with players practicing inside the renovated space as the team adjusts to the enhanced environment. The project, announced initially in 2023, includes updated facilities, more comfortable seating, a new video board, and expanded dining options. Last season’s home games were moved to alternative venues while construction proceeded.
Kansas is set to begin its 2025 season in Week 0 on August 23, welcoming Fresno State to the newly named David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium.
Summary: A landmark $300 million gift from KU alumnus David Booth marks a transformative investment in the university’s athletic program, adding to a history of substantial philanthropy that has helped fund facilities and operations. The completed renovations position Kansas for a new era of competition, recruiting, and fan experience as the Jayhawks prepare for the 2025 season.
What this means for KU
– A potential boost in recruiting appeal due to upgraded facilities and a premier stadium experience.
– Strengthened financial footing for ongoing and future athletics initiatives.
– Increased fan engagement opportunities through enhanced seating, video boards, and concessions.
– A positive signal of long-term commitment to Kansas athletics from a high-profile alumnus and business leader.
Positive note: The gift and ongoing upgrades lay the groundwork for Kansas to compete more effectively on a national stage, support athlete development, and create lasting benefits for fans and the broader university community.