Longtime Michigan State University supporter and alum Aaron Zeigler has made a $10 million commitment to FOR SPARTA, building on his long-standing relationship with the university and his dedication to Spartan Athletics. The commitment reflects Zeigler's belief in the future of Michigan State and his continued investment in the success of Spartan student-athletes.
The gift is designated to FOR SPARTA and will be used in support of Spartan football, including improvements at Spartan Stadium, site of core memories for so many MSU alums, including the Zeigler family.
"I believe in the direction of our athletic department and our university, and in what Dan and Kevin are doing to strengthen our position within the Big Ten and nationally," Zeigler stated. "Spartan Stadium represents so many great memories for me and my family. I am blessed to be able to give back to my alma mater and help to build a stronger future for MSU student-athletes."
"Aaron Zeigler brings a competitive spirit and a relentless drive for excellence to everything he does, and that same passion is reflected in his commitment to Michigan State," said MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. "Aaron understands what it takes to compete at the highest level, and he believes deeply in giving our student-athletes every opportunity to succeed. We're incredibly grateful for his leadership, his generosity and his unwavering confidence in the future of Spartan Athletics. His investment is a powerful example of the pride and determination that define what it means to be a Spartan."
A 1995 graduate of MSU's Eli Broad College of Business, Zeigler is president of Zeigler Automotive Group, one of the nation's largest privately owned automotive dealership groups. Based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Zeigler has remained closely connected to his alma mater through years of involvement with Spartan Athletics.
His relationship with Michigan State extends beyond financial support. Zeigler serves on the Spartan Ventures Board of Directors and has developed meaningful relationships with university leadership, coaches and student-athletes. His generosity and involvement have supported programs including football, men's basketball and men's golf.
Zeigler's commitment comes at an important time for Spartan Athletics as Michigan State continues investing in the people, facilities and experiences necessary to compete at the highest level.
"Aaron's commitment to FOR SPARTA and the Spartan Stadium project is the latest example of how his generosity is driven by his passion for this university. While his philanthropy reaches far beyond his alma mater, I am grateful for his belief in our direction, trust in our vision, and support of our student-athletes," added Vice President and Director of Athletics Dan Bartholomae. "And as someone who lent his support and guidance to me from the moment I arrived in the state, I am particularly grateful for his friendship. His leadership will continue to strengthen Michigan State University and make our dreams a reality."
The commitment will support FOR SPARTA, a $1 billion initiative focused on elevating facilities, enhancing the student-athlete experience and strengthening opportunities across Michigan State Athletics. FOR SPARTA is aligned with MSU's $4 billion Uncommon Will, Far Better World campaign.
"For Aaron Zeigler, the commitment to building something meaningful and lasting runs deep in his family," said Kim Tobin, vice president for University Advancement. "From the entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic instilled by his father to the Spartan pride he's passed along to his own children, Aaron understands the power of building a legacy that reaches beyond any one generation. He's taken that same passion, determination and belief in what's possible and turned it into extraordinary generosity for Michigan State. This gift is another example of Aaron leading by example, investing boldly in our future and inspiring others to dream bigger about what we can accomplish together. We're incredibly grateful for Aaron and the entire Zeigler family's friendship, generosity and enduring commitment to the Spartan community."
"We thank Aaron for his years of support of Michigan State Athletics," Spartan Athletic Foundation Interim President Jacob Kirkham said. "This latest commitment shows his belief in the direction and mission of the department, as well as the importance of funding our facilities to provide the greatest game day experience in the country. Aaron is an amazing partner who has not only given financially but has also provided his time and expertise when it comes to finding ways to make the Spartans better."
This story originally appeared on MSU Athletics.
