Michael Williams was one of those young people who took the phrase “dream big” and ran with it. Now, he is taking the opportunity to take a deep dive into his community, get involved, figure out what people and organizations around him need and help provide them the resources they need to “dream big.”
Now, the Okemos native has made a $1 million gift to MSU Athletics to benefit 10 varsity sports programs—all of them Olympic sports—namely women’s basketball; men’s and women’s cross country; men’s and women’s soccer; women’s tennis; men’s and women’s track and field; volleyball and wrestling.
Funds will enable these programs to focus on priorities such as recruiting, technology, team travel, food and nutrition, wellness and mental health resources, and performance coaching opportunities.
“Mike Williams’ passion for excellence and the care for student-athletes expressed by his gift will make a significant impact across a number of MSU sports,” says MSU President Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D. “I thank Mike for his engagement and support, and am proud to have him as a member of our Spartan community.”
Williams is a graduate of Western Michigan University, but he’s been a Spartan all his life. After graduating from college, he returned to Okemos, where he charged through his 20s building a career in real estate, and, most recently, as the founder of a successful title company that he sold last fall. Now, at the age of 31, he has jumped into the world of philanthropy with the same zeal.
“I’m a local guy trying to make a difference. I am proud to support MSU and provide back to the local community that’s given me so much. My goal is to inspire others within the broad MSU community to do the same,” Mike says.
“Much of who I am is because of my experience growing up locally (Okemos) with Michigan State in my backyard and participating in sports. Skills I learned like teamwork, work ethic, dedication to craft and leadership have been valuable to me in business and life in general. Supporting Spartan student-athletes and giving them a better experience can set them up for future success.”
His choice to support 10 varsity Olympic sports is emblematic of that, as each program has immediate needs that, when met, will enable them to level up in a tangible way. But it also appeals to Williams’ competitive side—he likes the idea of using his resources to become a force for programs that aren’t always in the spotlight, and hopes to inspire others to do the same.
“We’re grateful for Mike and his vision to be a part of transforming MSU Athletics,” says MSU Vice President and Director of Athletics Alan Haller. “His generous support for his hometown school mirrors our commitment to investing in the community. Together we can raise the bar, create history and celebrate success.”
The coaches and athletes in all 10 programs are excited to put Williams’ gift into action—and some already have plans in the works
“Mike‘s generous gift is one that will directly impact the student-athlete experience and instill an even deeper sense of pride in being a Spartan," says Jeff Hosler, MSU Women's Soccer head coach. "We are very fortunate to have Mike’s support—from stadium and equipment upgrades to firsthand experiences, along with peak performance and mindset training.”
Roger Chandler, head coach for MSU Wrestling, adds: “There is no doubt that Mike’s philanthropy to MSU Athletics is going to have a huge impact for all involved. For our program, it is allowing us to get our student-athletes new lockers, which has been a huge need for our program for quite some time. I know our guys are very excited and looking forward to the much-needed update.”
“Our current and future Spartans will benefit greatly from his generosity and truly appreciate how this gift has impacted not just our team, but so many of the men’s and women’s Olympic sport programs at Michigan State. This is an absolute game-changer for all of us,” says MSU Women’s Basketball head coach Suzy Merchant.
MSU Men’s Soccer head coach Damon Rensing also expressed thanks on behalf of his athletes and staff: “This investment will allow us to operate at a first-class level in recruiting, travel, operations and facilities while also enhancing the complete student-athlete experience from growth in leadership, career development and mental health. Mike’s contribution will have an immediate and lasting impact.”
LEARN MORE about supporting MSU Athletics by contacting Spartan Fund at spartanfund.net or calling (517) 432-4610.