Michigan State University has announced the receipt of a $1 million gift from the family of men's basketball coach Tom Izzo and his wife Lupe. The gift, among the largest ever by an active coach at any university, will be split among several projects, with a majority of the funds going toward the Spartan football program.
"We've been blessed to be a part of the Michigan State family for nearly 30 years," says Tom. "Jud Heathcote taught me long ago that the only good deal was one that benefits both parties, and that perfectly describes my relationship with Michigan State University. My wife Lupe and I, along with our children Raquel and Steven, have dedicated our lives to this University, because we believe in intercollegiate athletics and the positive role it plays in so many lives. The Spartans students are our passion, our life's work. We've raised a family here and become entrenched in the mission of the University. And in return, we've received so much more than we've given. With these blessings, we felt it was time to make a financial contribution.
"Supporting the football team was an easy decision. Coach Dantonio is a man of character, building a championship program. But what makes football special is that it truly benefits everyone across the university. Spearheaded by football's success, there is great momentum throughout all programs."
In addition to the amount earmarked for the football program, including both scholarship endowments and capital projects, the Izzo’s gift will support other projects, including the George Webster Scholarship Fund, the MSU Spartan Marching Band and Olympic sports at MSU.
"Both Tom and Lupe Izzo have been energetic supporters of this institution and this community," says MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon. "Spartans know that Tom is truly exceptional because he's far more than a great coach. He embodies the hardworking excellence at the core of the Team MSU ethos, and the Izzos' generous gift will help us pursue that ideal for all our student-athletes."