In a heartfelt gesture that reflects both gratitude and long-term vision, NFL star and Penn State legend Saquon Barkley has donated $2.5 million to the Penn State Athletic Scholarship Fund, making it one of the largest gifts ever by a former Nittany Lion. The donation not only honors Barkley’s deep ties to the university but signals his ongoing commitment to supporting student-athletes for generations to come.
Barkley, who starred at Penn State from 2015 to 2017 before being selected No. 2 overall in the 2018 NFL Draft, has never shied away from crediting the university for shaping him into the man and athlete he is today.
“This university gave me everything,” Barkley said in a statement. “Penn State believed in me when I was a 3-star recruit from Pennsylvania, and it became home. This is my way of giving back to the place and the people who helped me chase my dreams.”
The $2.5 million donation will be used to endow scholarships for future student-athletes across multiple sports, with a strong focus on providing resources to underrepresented and financially challenged students. The initiative will carry Barkley’s name and be managed through Penn State’s “Success With Honor” campaign—a nod to the university’s enduring athletic motto.
University President Neeli Bendapudi and Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Pat Kraft praised the gift, calling it a “transformational commitment” and a reflection of Barkley’s character.
“Saquon continues to represent the very best of Penn State,” said Kraft. “His generosity, humility, and desire to uplift others exemplify what it means to be a true Nittany Lion. This gift will change lives.”
The impact of the donation is already being felt in the locker rooms and athletic facilities. Barkley’s story—from his rise at Penn State to NFL stardom—serves as daily motivation for current athletes striving to make their mark.
“He’s one of us, and he never forgot where he came from,” said current Penn State running back Kaytron Allen. “Knowing that he’s giving back to help guys like me means everything. That’s legacy.”
In his three years in Happy Valley, Barkley amassed over 5,000 all-purpose yards and 51 total touchdowns. But more than the stats, it was his electric play, infectious energy, and leadership that made him a fan favorite and one of the most beloved players in Penn State history.
Now, through his philanthropic work, Barkley is continuing that legacy in a different—but equally powerful—way.
“I want to be remembered not just for what I did on the field,” Barkley said, “but for how I used my blessings to bless others. That’s what being a Nittany Lion is all about.”
From gridiron greatness to a guardian of future generations, Saquon Barkley’s latest move proves that real champions never stop giving.
