$300 Million Donation Fuels Transformation of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium: Largest Gift in KU History Accelerates Gateway District Expansion

In a historic move set to reshape the future of Kansas Athletics, University of Kansas alumnus and philanthropist David Booth has made a monumental $300 million donation to his alma mater. The unprecedented gift, announced on August 13, 2025, is the largest ever in the history of KU and its athletics program and stands among the most significant in the realm of collegiate sports.

The contribution marks a pivotal moment in the development of the David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium and the surrounding Gateway District, propelling Phase II of the renovation project into full motion. With this transformative investment, Booth reaffirms his enduring commitment to KU’s athletic and academic future—one he has nurtured for decades.

How Will David Booth’s $300 Million Gift Impact Kansas Memorial Stadium?

David Booth’s generous donation directly accelerates the completion of Phase II of the Gateway District, a multi-phase project aimed at modernizing and expanding the Kansas Memorial Stadium area. This next phase focuses on upgrading the east side of the stadium and introducing a wide range of enhancements to create a vibrant, multifunctional district in the heart of Lawrence, Kansas.

Specifically, $75 million of Booth’s donation will fund immediate construction efforts for Phase II. The remaining $225 million will be structured to generate a continuous stream of income, ensuring the long-term sustainability of Kansas Athletics and further investments in student-athlete development, facilities, and community engagement.

The project includes:

• New student housing facilities

• Retail and restaurant space

• A state-of-the-art hotel

• Improved parking solutions

• An outdoor event plaza

• Renovation of the east stadium stands to match the west, north, and south sections

According to KU Chancellor Doug Girod, “David has always believed in the power of athletics to unite communities… His generosity is inspiring, and his loyalty to KU runs deep.” Girod emphasized the project’s importance in boosting KU’s regional and national presence.

Why This Gift Matters for KU and the Future of College Athletics

This $300 million gift doesn’t just represent a number—it signifies an emotional and strategic commitment to the university’s long-term vision. David Booth, founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors, which manages $853 billion in global assets as of June 2025, has a longstanding history of investing in Kansas’s legacy.

In 2017, Booth gifted $50 million to initiate the stadium’s renovation, and in 2010, he famously purchased and donated James Naismith’s original basketball rules to KU. His contributions to the Booth Family Hall of Athletics further reflect his deep personal ties to the institution.

For Booth, this donation is about more than infrastructure. “This impacts people’s lives,” he said in a video message. “There aren’t that many things one can do where you can have as much impact as this Gateway project. I mean, this is transformative.”

KU Athletic Director Travis Goff echoed this sentiment, calling Booth “the most generous and impactful Jayhawk.” Goff added, “This gift inspires others to step up and join in completing this vision.”

What’s Next for the David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium?

The momentum for Phase II is already in motion. The Lawrence city commission approved the project’s continuation just one day before the donation was announced, granting full-speed-ahead clearance. With the first home football game scheduled in just 10 days, fans will get their first taste of the new stadium experience this season.

Beyond the stadium upgrades, the Gateway District represents a shift in how universities approach athletics: integrating sports with community development, student life, and economic opportunity.

For Kansas fans, students, and alumni, this donation signals the start of a new era—one built on pride, tradition, and forward-thinking investment.

David Booth’s name isn’t just etched in stone above the stadium—it’s now woven into the future of every touchdown, every cheer, and every memory made in Lawrence for generations to come.

You Must Know:

What is the David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium?
It is the home of the University of Kansas football team, named after alumnus David Booth, who has made several major donations to the university. The stadium is currently undergoing a multi-phase redevelopment as part of the Gateway District project.

How much has David Booth donated to KU in total?
David Booth has contributed over $350 million to the University of Kansas, including a record-breaking $300 million in August 2025. His past contributions include $50 million in 2017 and millions more for campus and athletics projects.

What is the Gateway District at KU?
The Gateway District is a transformational development surrounding the Kansas Memorial Stadium. It includes student housing, commercial spaces, a hotel, and a reimagined stadium experience, creating a year-round hub for the university and community.

When will the new stadium renovations be completed?
Phase II has received full approval as of August 2025 and is now under construction. While timelines can shift, parts of the newly renovated stadium are set to open with the 2025 football season.

Why is this donation significant for college athletics?
David Booth’s $300 million gift ranks among the largest ever in college sports. It sets a benchmark for philanthropic support and shows how private investment can drive long-term athletic and community transformation.

Who is David Booth?
David Booth is a University of Kansas alumnus and the founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors, a global investment firm. His contributions to KU span decades and have significantly shaped its athletic and academic identity.