CHAMPAIGN — The largest philanthropic donation in Illinois athletics history will go in large part to supporting the construction of the Illini's new Football Performance Center. The H.D. Smith Foundation, led by Dale and Chris Smith, has announced a donation of $20 million to the University of Illinois Foundation, with $15 million toward the latest football facilities upgrade.
In recognition of the gift, the building will forever be named the Henry Dale and Betty Smith Football Center.
"To say a simple 'thank you' for such an extraordinary gift fails to do justice to the generous investment the Smiths have chosen to make in Illinois Athletics and, specifically, our football program," Illinois athletic director Josh Whitman said.