EAST LANSING — Michigan State University announced a historic $401 million commitment from Greg and Dawn Williams, marking the largest single donation in the university’s history and one of the largest in college athletics.
The commitment is part of MSU’s “Uncommon Will, Far Better World” campaign and supports the FOR SPARTA initiative, with $290 million allocated to Spartan Athletics and $100 million invested in Spartan Ventures.
“The commitment that Greg and Dawn are making represents an extraordinary act of generosity and belief in Michigan State University’s future,” said MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D.
“This commitment reflects our belief that we should give back to our community… and to the place we call home,” said Greg and Dawn Williams.
“In today’s evolving college athletics landscape, this is a monumental day in the history of Michigan State Athletics,” said MSU Vice President and Director of Athletics J Batt.
Beyond athletics, $11 million of the gift will support academic and extracurricular initiatives, including the MSU Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, the Risk Management and Financial Insurance Program in the Eli Broad College of Business, the Spartan Marching Band and Pep Bands, and the Sparty Mascot Program.
Greg and Dawn Williams have a history of philanthropy at MSU, having previously contributed over $25 million to various initiatives and serving as inaugural co-chairs of the university’s $4 billion campaign.
FOR SPARTA is the largest capital initiative in Spartan Athletics history, aiming to elevate facilities, enhance the student-athlete experience, and secure the department’s position as a leader in college athletics.
The Williamses have also made significant contributions beyond MSU, including Acrisure’s $30 million pledge for the Acrisure Amphitheater and donations to children’s health initiatives.