Historical Move: Football Legend Shane Conlan Donates $18.2 Million to James Franklin for Penn State’s New Stadium Project
In a powerful display of school pride and lasting legacy, former football legend Shane Conlan has made a historic $18.2 million donation to support Penn State’s new stadium project, marking one of the most significant individual contributions in the university’s athletic history. The funding will go directly toward head coach James Franklin’s ambitious initiative to build a state-of-the-art football arena, aimed at ushering in a new era for Penn State football.
The announcement, made at a press conference held inside Beaver Stadium, was met with cheers from fans, alumni, and current players alike. Conlan, a two-time All-American linebacker and College Football Hall of Famer, played a pivotal role in Penn State’s national championship run in 1986 and has long been revered as one of the program’s all-time greats.
“Penn State pride lives within me wherever I go,” said Conlan during the emotional ceremony. “This program gave me everything—discipline, brotherhood, a future. I’m proud to stand with Coach Franklin and invest in the next generation of Nittany Lions.”
The $18.2 million donation is expected to cover a substantial portion of the early construction and design phases of the stadium project, which includes upgraded seating, advanced training facilities, and enhanced fan experiences. James Franklin, visibly moved by the gesture, praised Conlan’s commitment, calling it a “game-changing moment” for the program.
“Shane Conlan represents everything that is great about Penn State,” Franklin said. “His legacy was already cemented on the field, but this gift shows his continued dedication to the growth and future of our program. We are beyond grateful.”
The new stadium project is set to transform the landscape of Penn State athletics, with construction expected to begin in 2026. While the current Beaver Stadium has long been a symbol of Penn State football tradition, university officials believe the new arena will blend modern innovation with the school’s rich history.
Conlan’s donation also signals a call to action for other alumni and supporters to invest in the program’s future. As he stood before the media, flanked by Franklin and several Penn State officials, Conlan closed with a heartfelt message: “This is more than a stadium. It’s about carrying the torch forward. The pride, the passion—it lives on.”
With this monumental gift, Shane Conlan not only honors the past but also propels Penn State football toward a bold, exciting future.