In a unanimous decision on Thursday, the University of Illinois Board of Trustees approved the renaming of Gies Memorial Stadium. The decision came just over a week after philanthropist Larry Gies’ $100 million donation to the University’s Division of Intercollegiate Athletics.
Gies said the donation was in honor of his late father, Larry Gies Sr., a veteran of the United States Army.
“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 wrote in a press release. “With this investment, we can ensure that this stadium continues to be a place where their sacrifices will never be forgotten — and a shining light for every American who protects our freedom in the future.”
Gies graduated from the University in 1988 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, going on to start Madison Industries — a multibillion-dollar consulting firm — where he is the CEO.
In 2017, the Gies family gifted the University’s College of Business with a $150 million donation, followed by the renaming of the school — now titled the Gies College of Business. The alumnus said the College of Business is a “very special place” to him, and his foundation for success was created on this campus.
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“Larry Gies has a phenomenal track record of supporting the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in a multitude of profound and transformative ways,” wrote Board of Trustees Chairman Jesse Ruiz in a press release. “This latest act of generosity will help to maintain our treasured memorial to the many service men and women who have protected our freedom, for many years to come.”
Banners surrounding the stadium now sport the new name, and the field also displays the updated title.
“The unwavering commitment of Larry Gies to the university and the U of I System is an inspiration to us all,” wrote UI System President Tim Killeen in a press release. “This gift will help keep Fighting Illini athletics strong for years to come and Gies Memorial Stadium will continue to stand in honor of the service and sacrifices of our country’s veterans.”
