Michigan State University has unveiled “For Sparta,” an initiative designed to raise $1 billion for the upgrade of its athletic facilities.
In a statement, the university said the initiative will include a “re-imagined Spartan Stadium, including a new East Tower with a diversity of premium seating options and year-round functionality, will provide football fans the best in-game experience in college football.” The initiative will also include upgrades to the Breslin Center, with an exclusive club and courtside suites designed to offer “an elevated experience for fans at Spartan basketball, volleyball and gymnastics events.”
The university cannot receive public funding for this endeavor unless it specifically requests an appropriation from the state. While the university has a history of receiving generous gifts from deep-pocketed donors – most notably a $32 million offering in 2021 by Mat Ishbia, CEO of United Wholesale Mortgage – The Detroit News reports the athletics department is currently operating with more than $100 million in debt.
“Most athletic departments’ budgets are in the red to some degree,” said Dr. Kevin M. Guskiewicz, the university president, in an interview with The Detroit News last June. “We’re very confident that this will be covered through some existing resource that we have in reserve, and most likely through fundraising efforts.”
Photo: Artist’s rendering of the upgraded Spartan Stadium
