Notre Dame have confirmed the club’s Riley James Leonard donations will be focused on the Notre Dame Foundation and Notre Dame Disabled Supporters’ Association>>>

Notre Dame have confirmed the club’s Riley James Leonard donations will be focused on the Notre Dame Foundation and Notre Dame Disabled Supporters’ Association>>>

Notre Dame University has announced that donations made in honor of Riley James Leonard will be directed toward two prominent institutions: the Notre Dame Foundation and the Notre Dame Disabled Supporters’ Association (NDDSA). The move comes as part of an ongoing effort to create lasting, positive change within both the university community and the wider supporters’ network, particularly focusing on initiatives designed to improve accessibility for disabled fans.

Riley James Leonard, a standout athlete at Notre Dame, has long been an advocate for charitable giving and community involvement. Following his time at the university, he decided to direct his charitable donations to causes he holds dear, with a strong emphasis on helping the next generation of students and supporting those who may face additional challenges in participating fully in university life and sports culture. Leonard’s connection to Notre Dame and its community has left a deep impression, and this announcement underscores his continued commitment to making a difference.

The donations will primarily be allocated between two main areas: the Notre Dame Foundation and the Notre Dame Disabled Supporters’ Association, both of which have been pivotal in supporting Notre Dame’s initiatives aimed at increasing inclusion, access, and academic opportunity. The Notre Dame Foundation is dedicated to advancing the university’s mission, fostering student success, and creating a future where students from all backgrounds can excel. The funds donated in Leonard’s name will be used to support scholarships, educational programs, and various university improvement projects, ensuring that Notre Dame continues to be a place of innovation and progress.

Meanwhile, the Notre Dame Disabled Supporters’ Association (NDDSA) plays a critical role in advocating for disabled fans who wish to experience Notre Dame’s athletics and campus life. The funds directed to the NDDSA will be used to improve the stadium’s accessibility and provide additional resources for disabled supporters, including enhanced seating, easier access to events, and improved services for those requiring assistance. The donation will also contribute to the establishment of new initiatives designed to foster greater community involvement for disabled individuals, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can be a part of the Notre Dame experience.

Speaking on behalf of the university, Notre Dame’s Athletic Director Jack Swarbrick expressed his gratitude for Leonard’s philanthropic gesture. “Riley has always been someone who understands the importance of giving back to the community. His decision to focus on these two organizations reflects his deep appreciation for both the student body and our supporters who may face extra challenges. We are grateful for his generosity, which will have a lasting impact on the university and beyond.”

The announcement has been met with widespread support from the Notre Dame community. Faculty members, alumni, and students have all praised Leonard’s efforts, noting the significance of these donations in promoting both academic excellence and inclusivity. “Riley’s donation is a powerful reminder of the values we hold here at Notre Dame,” said University President Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C. “His commitment to improving accessibility and providing opportunities for students is inspiring. We are incredibly proud to have him as part of our alumni family.”

The announcement also comes at a time when there has been growing attention on ensuring that sports venues, especially at universities, are more inclusive for all fans. Efforts to make stadiums and arenas more accessible have been a focus of universities across the country, and Notre Dame is continuing to be a leader in these efforts.

Leonard’s donation will not only help expand these efforts at Notre Dame but will serve as a call to action for others to invest in similar initiatives. As Notre Dame continues to break barriers and forge paths in both education and inclusion, Riley James Leonard’s generous gesture will undoubtedly be remembered as a key moment in the university’s ongoing journey toward a more equitable and supportive future for all.

As part of the donation plan, an official event will be held later this year to honor Leonard’s contributions. This event will also serve as a platform to raise awareness for the work being done by the Notre Dame Foundation and the NDDSA, showcasing the university’s commitment to accessibility, support, and education for all its stakeholders.