COLUMBUS, OH – In a stunning display of unwavering loyalty and generosity, former Ohio State football legend Archie Griffin has donated a staggering $12.2 million to the university’s ambitious new football stadium project.
The record-setting contribution marks the single largest individual gift ever given by a former Buckeye athlete and underscores Griffin’s enduring commitment to the program that helped launch his legendary career.
Griffin, the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in college football history, made the announcement alongside university officials at a press conference held inside the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. The donation will go toward the construction and enhancement of Ohio State’s planned state-of-the-art football stadium, aimed at elevating the fan experience and reinforcing the university’s position as a national leader in collegiate athletics.
“This university has given me so much—on and off the field,” Griffin said. “It shaped me into the person I am today, and I want to ensure that future generations of Buckeyes have the same opportunities to grow, compete, and thrive.”
The new stadium, which is set to break ground in 2026, will feature expanded seating, enhanced training and rehabilitation facilities, and cutting-edge technology for both athletes and fans. University President Kristina M. Johnson praised Griffin’s contribution, calling it a “transformational gift that reflects the heart and soul of Buckeye Nation.”
Athletic Director Gene Smith added, “Archie has always been a symbol of excellence and integrity. This gift not only cements his legacy, but it also propels our program into an exciting new era.”
Griffin’s donation is expected to inspire further philanthropic support from alumni and fans alike, reinforcing the Buckeye community’s unmatched passion and pride. Plans are already underway to honor Griffin within the new stadium’s design, ensuring his legacy remains central to Ohio State football’s future.
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