The University of Kansas (KU) recently received a landmark $300 million gift from alumnus David Booth, marking the largest donation in the history of both KU Athletics and the university overall. This unprecedented generosity is not only one of the biggest single contributions ever made in collegiate athletics but also a pivotal investment that will significantly advance the ambitious Gateway District project.
David Booth’s donation includes a $75 million challenge grant aimed at energizing the next stage of development around the David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium and the Gateway District itself. The remainder of the gift will be strategically invested to generate ongoing income, helping KU Athletics maintain competitiveness well into the future, especially in the evolving era of revenue sharing in college sports.
The Gateway District initiative has already seen impressive progress, with completed renovations on the north, west, and southwest sections of the stadium. The upcoming phase will focus on revitalizing the east side of the stadium while enhancing the surrounding area with new amenities such as a conference center, hotel, retail shops, restaurants, student housing, and expanded parking. This comprehensive development is designed to transform the stadium and its environs into a vibrant, multi-use hub that serves both the university community and the broader Lawrence area.
KU Athletics Director and Vice Chancellor Travis Goff praised Booth’s gift as “transformative now and for our future,” emphasizing its role in accelerating the Gateway District’s second phase. Goff lauded Booth’s exceptional impact on generations of student-athletes and fans, calling him “the most generous and impactful Jayhawk” and highlighting the deep friendship and mentorship he provides to the university.
Kansas football fans will see the fruits of this investment firsthand in the upcoming 2025 season. The Jayhawks are set to open their home schedule on August 23, 2025, in the newly enhanced stadium against Fresno State, hosting a total of seven home games during the regular season, including critical Big 12 Conference matchups.
KU Chancellor Douglas Girod echoed these sentiments by recognizing David Booth’s belief in how athletics unite communities and cultivate lasting loyalty and spirit among alumni, students, and fans. Girod emphasized the inspiring nature of Booth’s loyalty and generosity, which deeply enriches the KU family.
Reflecting on his motivation, David Booth expressed that one of life’s greatest privileges is giving back to the places and people that contributed to his success. For Booth, KU and the Lawrence community hold a special place in his story. He compared philanthropy to investing, highlighting how each gift compounds over time to create enduring opportunities—not just for the present but for future generations as well.
In summary, David Booth’s historic $300 million donation represents more than just financial support; it’s a visionary investment that will elevate KU Athletics and the Gateway District, enriching the university experience and community life in Lawrence for decades to come. This gift underscores the powerful role of philanthropy in shaping the future, reminding us that generous leadership like Booth’s is instrumental in driving lasting progress.
