U Of I Athletic Department Seeks To Raise $300 Million
Rendering of the exterior of the proposed U of I Football Performance Center to be completed in 2019. HTNB Architects
The University of Illinois Department of Intercollegiate Athletics has announced a $300 million fundraising campaign, that will include building a new Football Performance Center.
Athletic Director Josh Whitman says that $200 million of the fundraising goal is slated for capital projects, including the new football facility, which will include space for new locker rooms, offices, sports medicine, and strength and conditioning.
Whitman says he's asking for people to buy into his vision for what the Illinois football program can be, rather than what it is right now.
"You're looking for people to be a part of the build, a part of the process," Whitman said at a news conference Monday. "I think that when somebody is there from ground zero, if you will, it makes the end result that much sweeter."
Whitman says the remaining $100 million of the DIA's fundraising goal will be $70 million for athletic scholarships, and $30 million for student-athlete services, including academic services, personal development, and physical care.
Whitman had previously discussed the Football Performance Center this summer in a look back at his first year on the job as athletic director, but revealed more details Monday about the facility.