David Booth, a billionaire alumnus of the University of Kansas, has made history with a $300 million donation to the school’s athletics department. It is the largest single gift in the university’s history and one of the most significant contributions ever to collegiate sports in the United States.
The donation will fund major renovations to the David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, including upgraded seating, enhanced fan amenities, and expanded facilities for athletes. Plans also call for new retail spaces, student housing, and an event plaza to create a year-round destination in Lawrence.
Booth, who made his fortune in investment management, said the gift is about more than sports. He sees athletics as a powerful unifying force for the university and the community. “A great athletics program helps drive school spirit, enrollment, and national recognition,” he noted during the announcement.
University officials believe the improvements will not only boost game-day experiences but also attract top athletes and generate economic benefits for the city. The project is expected to create jobs and draw visitors, reinforcing Lawrence as a regional hub for events.
With this donation, Booth joins a growing list of billionaires reshaping college sports through private funding. His contribution signals that the competition for athletic excellence now extends far beyond the playing field—into the realm of high-stakes philanthropy.
