Peyton Manning Commits $3 Million Dollars to Tennessee

On Thursday Peyton Manning announced a $3 million dollar leadership commitment to his alma mater that will fund the Peyton Manning Scholarship Endowment, established in 1998, as well as honor two of his UT heroes.

Dwight D. Eisenhower was president when Gus Manning (no relation to Peyton) first joined the University of Tennessee as sports information director. In the past 54 years he’s held—at one time or another—nearly every athletic position available at UT, and he’s still going strong today. To honor him, gate 16 at Neyland Stadium will be named Gus Manning Gate.

Also being recognized is Carmen Tegano, who has served as former-student athlete liaison for 31 years. The Carmen and Deborah Tegano Student-Athlete Dining Hall will grace a new residence hall that’s currently under construction.

Peyton Manning’s long philanthropic record has become nearly as impressive as his athletic accolades.

The Peyton Manning Scholarship fully funds promising honors students for all four years of study at Tennessee. Thursday’s commitment will allow the endowment to give four scholarships a year instead of two.

“We are grateful for the opportunities we have had to give the gift of an education to deserving UT students every year through the scholarship program,” said Manning.  “It means a great deal to us to give young people an edge in maximizing their potential.”

The 5-time NFL MVP has also funded Tennessee’s state-of-the-art Anderson Training Center, acted as lead donor in the renovation of Neyland Stadium, rebuilt the Volunteers’ locker room, and made significant contributions to the College of Communications, from whom he received his degree in 1997.

Peyton Manning remains the school’s career record holder in passing yards, touchdowns, completions, completion percentage, and 300-yard games.

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*Featured Photo (above) credit to Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

UAB linebacker wears football helmet to graduation
UAB linebacker wears football helmet to graduation