LaVar Arrington Donates $15 Million to Penn State Football, Honoring Legacy of Coaches and Teammates

LaVar Arrington Donates $15 Million to Penn State Football, Honoring Legacy of Coaches and Teammates

In a powerful gesture of gratitude and legacy, former Penn State All-American linebacker LaVar Arrington has donated $15 million to the Penn State Football program, marking one of the largest individual contributions in the program’s history. The donation is aimed at enhancing player development, upgrading facilities, and preserving the traditions that shaped Arrington’s collegiate success.

Announced in a heartfelt press conference at Beaver Stadium, Arrington dedicated the gift to the coaches, teammates, and mentors who impacted his life during his time in Happy Valley from 1997 to 1999. The former standout linebacker was emotional as he reflected on his journey from college star to NFL Pro Bowler—and now, a major benefactor of the program that launched his career.

“This university gave me more than just football,” Arrington said. “It gave me structure, it gave me family, and it gave me the foundation to grow into the man I am today. This gift is my way of saying ‘thank you’ to the men and women who believed in me.”

The donation will fund several key initiatives within the football program, including:

• Renovations to the Lasch Football Building, Penn State’s training facility
• Scholarship support for underprivileged student-athletes
• A new leadership and mentorship center named in honor of Arrington’s former coach, the late Joe Paterno
• The creation of the “Arrington Legacy Fund,” which will assist with career development programs for players transitioning out of football

Arrington was one of the most dominant defensive players in college football history. Known for his explosive athleticism and highlight-reel plays, he earned consensus All-American honors and won the Butkus and Bednarik Awards in 1999. Drafted No. 2 overall by Washington in the 2000 NFL Draft, he played seven seasons in the NFL and later transitioned into broadcasting and business ventures.

Penn State Head Coach James Franklin praised Arrington’s donation as a reflection of the bond between past and present players.
“This is bigger than football,” Franklin said. “It’s about legacy, brotherhood, and building a program that honors its past while preparing for the future. LaVar’s generosity will directly impact generations of student-athletes.”

Penn State fans and alumni reacted with pride and appreciation. On social media, hashtags like #ThankYouLaVar and #WeAreForever trended as tributes poured in from former teammates, fans, and even rival players who respected Arrington’s greatness.

The university also announced plans to honor Arrington during the upcoming football season, including a halftime ceremony and a commemorative plaque at the Lasch Building.

For LaVar Arrington, the donation isn’t just about giving back—it’s about paying forward the values of discipline, unity, and excellence that defined his time in State College.

“We Are… is more than a chant,” he said. “It’s a lifelong commitment. And I’m proud to be part of that family forever.”