KU Athletics Receives Historic $300 Million Gift from Alumnus David Booth — Largest in University History
Lawrence, Kansas — Just days before the Kansas Jayhawks football season opener against Fresno State on August 23, 2025, the University of Kansas (KU) announced a record-breaking $300 million donation from longtime supporter and alumnus David G. Booth. This is the largest single gift in KU history and one of the biggest ever in college athletics, marking a new era for Kansas Athletics and the Gateway District project.
Booth’s monumental gift will accelerate Phase II of the Gateway District — a major development that will transform David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium and surrounding facilities — while securing long-term funding for KU Athletics programs for generations.
Who Is David G. Booth?
David Booth is a Lawrence High School and KU graduate who went on to earn his MBA from the University of Chicago. He is the founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors, a global investment firm managing over $853 billion as of mid-2025.
Known for his visionary philanthropy, Booth has a long history of supporting KU. In 2017, his $50 million donation helped launch stadium renovations, leading to the venue being renamed in his honor in 2018. He also famously purchased James Naismith’s original rules of basketball for KU in 2010 and has contributed millions to KU academics and athletics over the decades.
Breakdown of the $300 Million Gift
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$75 million challenge fund to encourage other donors to support the Gateway District.
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Remaining funds will create a perpetual income stream to strengthen KU Athletics.
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Investment will support stadium upgrades, a new hotel, retail and dining spaces, student housing, better parking, and an outdoor event plaza.
This funding ensures KU can remain competitive in the rapidly changing NCAA landscape, including the era of revenue sharing and increased national competition.
Impact on Kansas Athletics and the Gateway District
Phase II of the Gateway District redevelopment aims to:
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Modernize David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium into a prototype for future football stadiums.
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Boost economic growth in Lawrence, Kansas through new retail, hospitality, and entertainment spaces.
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Enhance the gameday experience for Jayhawk fans.
KU Chancellor Douglas A. Girod praised Booth’s loyalty, saying:
“David has always believed in the power of athletics to unite communities. His generosity will inspire generations of Jayhawks to come.”
David Booth’s Vision for KU
Booth says his donation is about more than sports — it’s about investing in KU’s future:
“Philanthropy, like investing, pays dividends over time. Each gift compounds, creating opportunities not just for today, but for years to come.”
Growing up in Lawrence near Allen Fieldhouse, Booth’s passion for KU sports began early. At 13, he worked as an usher at the football stadium and sold popcorn at basketball games — memories that still fuel his commitment to the Jayhawk community.
A Legacy That Extends Beyond Kansas
In addition to his KU support, Booth has made significant contributions elsewhere, including a $300 million gift to the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in 2008. His philanthropy spans sports, education, and the arts, shaping institutions nationwide.
About KU Athletics
Founded in 1925, Kansas Athletics oversees 18 men’s and women’s sports programs at KU, a top public research university with more than 30,000 students.
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David Booth Donates $300M to KU Athletics — Largest Gift in University History
University of Kansas alumnus David Booth gives $300 million to KU Athletics, funding the Gateway District’s Phase II and transforming David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium.
Written by: Zamal Uddin
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