NBA Hall-of-Famer and beloved TNT analyst, Charles Barkley, is making headlines once again. However, this time it isn’t for his bold predictions or sports bets. This time, it’s about a cause that the 1993 MVP holds dear to his heart. With over $60 million in the bank, Chuck has once again taken matters into his own hands. Barkley contributed over $1 million to Bethune Cookman University, a historically Black college in Daytona Beach, Florida
This unexpected act left another 65-year-old former NBA player overwhelmed. Charles Barkley‘s remarkable donation showcased his heartfelt desire to support educational institutions and empower future generations.
Former All-Star on Barkley’s “generous and transformative” donation
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Reginald Wayne Theus, the head men’s basketball coach and athletic director at Bethune-Cookman University, was the 9th overall pick in the 1978 NBA Draft. He expressed profound admiration for the donation made by Barkley. Theus hailed the contribution as both “generous and transformative,” emphasizing its potential to be a true “game changer.”
As a leader on campus, two-time NBA All-Star Theus recognizes the pressing need for progress in various areas of the university.
Theus highlights the necessity for facilities such as a new track, basketball arena, and improved locker rooms for the football team, among other pressing needs. “Progress is needed everywhere on campus,” he added.
Importantly, Theus also highlights the broader significance of Barkley’s donation, stressing that Bethune-Cookman is not the sole Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) in need of financial support.
The high-profile donation by a respected public figure is expected to attract further interest. In turn, this could foster a positive ripple effect within the HBCU community.
Charles Barkley has impacted the education system
The philanthropic efforts of Barkley have had a profound impact on American communities.
He has shown an unshakeable dedication to giving back over the years. In 2020, he gave $1 million each to Miles College and Tuskegee University in Alabama. Following the recent Supreme Court judgment, Barkley went as far as to amend his will! He announced a $5 million donation to preserve the diversity at his Alma Mater, Auburn University.
Beyond academic institutions, Barkley also expressed his gratitude to the Leeds City Schools in Alabama. He gave each employee at his former high school a $1,000 gift and promised free computers and internet access for the students.
In addition, the former Phoenix Suns player announced his intention to donate $1 million to ALS research in Alabama. This is in memory of Gary Godfrey, a former Auburn teammate who recently suffered from the condition.
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Barkley keeps having a positive influence on numerous causes through his continued charity.
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