$25 million donation from John and Laura Lally transforms university athletics

Syracuse University has received a transformative $25 million donation from John Lally and his wife, Laura. Lally is a former Syracuse football player and 1982 graduate of the Whitman School of Management.

This historic gift, one of the largest in the university’s history, is dedicated to enhancing Syracuse Athletics’ future by funding state-of-the-art facilities, operations, and support systems for student-athletes.

The Lallys’ commitment has already catalyzed significant developments, including establishing the John A. Lally Athletics Complex.

This facility, envisioned as an “Athletic and Academic Village,” aims to provide student-athletes with world-class resources to excel both on and off the field.

The complex features cutting-edge technology, expanded meeting spaces, and plans for an academic success center. It is also a central hub for alumni, staff, coaches, and prospective athletes.

John Lally, who played offensive guard for Syracuse from 1977 to 1981, emphasized the importance of giving back to the university that shaped his life. “Being a Syracuse football player was formative for me,” he said. Laura and I are committed to ensuring that future student-athletes have access to first-class facilities and support systems. “

The donation is part of Syracuse University’s broader “Forever Orange” campaign, which seeks to raise $1.5 billion to enhance academics, athletics, and campus life.

The Lallys’ gift has inspired other donors to contribute toward the campaign’s $150 million goal for athletics. This includes plans for a new Football Operations Center and an Olympic Sports Center.

Syracuse University Chancellor Kent Syverud and Athletic Director John Wildhack have praised the Lallys’ generosity as pivotal in advancing the university’s mission. “Their support enables us to recruit top-tier student-athletes and provide them with tools to thrive academically and athletically,” Wildhack stated during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the complex’s entranceway.

Beyond athletics, the Lally family has supported other philanthropic efforts, including scholarships at the Whitman School of Management and contributions to organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Their enduring commitment reflects their values of giving back and fostering community development.

The Lallys’ donation marks a new era for Syracuse Athletics, positioning it as a competitive force in collegiate sports while enriching the overall student experience.