Since the Penn State Board of Trustees approved major renovation plans for Beaver Stadium last May, the project has already attracted significant financial support. The trustees gave the green light for up to $700 million in renovations to the iconic home of the Penn State football team. While the primary aim of the renovation is to enhance the football experience, the university envisions Beaver Stadium as a year-round venue for non-athletic events, such as concerts. Though the hefty price tag has sparked some criticism, both from the public and some board members, the project has also garnered substantial donations.
To date, the university has received at least $66 million in donations for the renovation, with several of these gifts reaching eight figures. Among the notable contributions are three major “Beaver Stadium Founders” gifts—each over $10 million—from prominent donors.
The largest gift, a $25 million contribution, came from the Misitano family (Anthony and Catherine Misitano and their daughter, Brittany) in partnership with PAM Health. This donation, which ranks as the second-largest in Penn State athletics history, will fund the new West Tower, which will house the University Welcome Center. The Misitano family, long-time supporters of Penn State Athletics, has been a staple in the community, holding season tickets since 1978. As a recognition of their generosity, the West Tower will bear their name.
Two anonymous donors have also contributed $10 million each. One of these donors has long supported the university, and the other’s name has been kept confidential. Trustee emeritus Ira Lubert and his wife, Pam Estadt, also pledged $10 million. Their donation will fund the Lubert Family Welcome Center, which will serve as the main entrance for fans on game days and the first stop for prospective students on tours of the campus. The center, which will provide interactive exhibits and serve as a hub for various campus and community events, is expected to elevate Penn State’s pre-admissions experience to new heights.
Playfly Sports, the university’s multimedia rights partner, also stepped in with a $5 million donation in late September. As a Pennsylvania-based company, Playfly recognizes the cultural and economic impact of Beaver Stadium and its significance for the region and state. This contribution will help fund improvements that will benefit all 31 of Penn State’s athletic programs, as the renovated stadium is expected to increase revenue for the athletic department.
In October, Frank and Jennifer Marzano donated $5 million, which will support the creation of the Marzano Club. This premium space on the West sideline of the renovated stadium will offer an elevated game day experience, along with a venue for community and campus events year-round.
An anonymous family of Penn State alumni made another $1 million contribution in November.
Although the final design details of the renovations have not yet been revealed, the project will include a host of upgrades. These include a 21,000-square-foot Welcome Center, improved stadium circulation to reduce congestion, expanded concourses, an upgraded press box, new restrooms, enhanced concession offerings, and expanded premium seating. The renovation will also improve field lighting to accommodate future events and entertainment. Work on the stadium has already begun, with a significant milestone reached in late September when the press box was demolished.
As the renovations move forward, they are expected to modernize the stadium while preserving its rich history, creating a state-of-the-art venue that serves not just football fans, but the wider community and university for years to come.
