DES MOINES, Iowa – Drake Athletics, led by Director of Athletics Brian Hardin, today announced a transformational $1 million gift from alumni Bill and Linda Weidmaier, a commitment that will strengthen Drake men's basketball and enhance the future of the Knapp Center arena.
 
Bill Weidmaier, a 1973 graduate of Drake University, and his wife Linda have demonstrated extraordinary generosity and belief in Drake Athletics through a gift that invests both in people and in place. Of the $1 million commitment, $500,000 will establish a new endowment to support Drake men's basketball, while the remaining $500,000 will fund improvements to the Knapp Center, including the development of a new mezzanine-level hospitality suite.
 
"This gift is a powerful statement of belief in Drake Athletics," said Brian Hardin, Director of Athletics at Drake University. "Bill and Linda Weidmaier understand that sustained excellence requires both long-term resources and exceptional facilities. Their leadership will have a direct and lasting impact on our student-athletes, our program, and the experience we provide to Bulldog fans."
 
The newly established Drake Men's Basketball Endowment, launched by the Weidmaier donation, and through other Drake financial contributions, will assure permanent funds for the basketball program that fuel the athletic department, helping Drake remain competitive at the highest levels while ensuring a first-class student-athlete experience.
 
The Knapp Center improvements will enhance the game-day environment and create new opportunities to engage donors, alumni, and fans in one of the most fan-friendly venues in college basketball.
 
"For more than 30 years, the Knapp Center has been a defining part of the Drake experience," Hardin added. "Investments like this ensure that it continues to serve as a home worthy of our tradition, our student-athletes, and our supporters."
 
The Weidmaier's gift reflects a deep connection to Drake and a desire to give back in a way that inspires others.
 
"Drake Athletics has always represented pride, community, and opportunity," said Bill Weidmaier. "Linda and I are grateful for the role Drake played in our lives, and we hope this gift encourages fellow Bulldogs to invest in the future of Drake Athletics and the next generation of student-athletes. With college athletics going through a major transition, I feel we need to step up and commit to maintain Drake's national recognition."
 
Drake Athletics relies on the generosity of alumni and friends to provide opportunities, resources, and facilities that allow student-athletes to excel in competition, in the classroom, and in the community. Leadership gifts like the Weidmaier's help generate momentum and invite others to join in strengthening Drake Athletics.
 
"Philanthropy is a team effort," Hardin said. "When alumni step forward with vision and generosity, it inspires our entire Bulldog community to rally together and invest in what makes Drake special."
 
For more information on how to support Drake Athletics, contact Tim Tesar at tim.tesar@drake.edu or 515-271-2132.