Northwestern receives $15 million athletics gift

J. Landis (Lanny) and Sharon Martin have committed $15 million to support Northwestern University’s campaign for athletics and recreation, bringing the total of major gifts pledged in support of this campaign to more than $70 million, university officials announced Monday.

In recognition of the gift, Northwestern will name the soccer and lacrosse stadium at the University’s new lakeside athletics complex for the Martins. The existing stadium will be significantly renovated to provide a superior training and competition venue for student-athletes and an upgraded experience for fans.

Approved by the Northwestern Board of Trustees in September, the plans for the athletics complex include support for varsity, intramural and recreational athletics programs.

The Martins have been important donors to Northwestern for more than 30 years. Their support has included creating the J. Landis Martin Professorship of Law and Business as well as generous gifts to the Law School Fund and the Bienen School of Music Fund.

“We are deeply grateful for Lanny and Sharon’s generous investment in the University’s future,” said Northwestern President Morton Schapiro. “The gift recognizes that athletics play a pivotal role in the life of the University, and the benefits of the new complex will extend to the entire Northwestern community.”