A $32.5 Million Deal Sparks Family Outrage
The family of Harry A. Gampel says the University of Connecticut breached a pledge by attaching a corporate sponsor’s name to the arena, calling the new 20-year branding deal both disrespectful and shocking.
UConn announced on Oct. 21 that the facility would be known as the M&T Bank Center at Gampel Pavilion. The agreement, valued at $32.5 million, secured approval from the UConn Board of Trustees.
Daughters Condemn Broken Naming Pledge
In a letter to The Courant, Gampel’s daughters expressed deep frustration that they were not consulted about the partnership. They noted that a previous university president signed a formal pledge guaranteeing their father’s full name would remain on the building in perpetuity.
“This shocking reality is a despicable and disrespectful way to honor the legacy of our father, Harry A. Gampel,” the family wrote. They noted further that Harry Gampel’s financial contribution in 1989 paved the way for subsequent contributors, laying the groundwork for UConn basketball to evolve into a nationally acclaimed program and win national championships.
“When then President John Casteen, III signed a pledge to our father that his full name would be featured on the pavilion in perpetuity, no one expected that commitment to be breached. That is why students, alumni, athletes and his children and grandchildren are angry,” the family continued.
College Sports Pressures Meet Historic Legacies
The family acknowledged the value of corporate fundraising, stating they would have accepted equal name sharing if they had been consulted.
Officials Defend Bank Partnership Agreement
University officials defended the agreement by emphasizing that the university continues to honor and revere Harry A. Gampel. In a formal statement, the university asserted that it had spoken with a lawyer acting on behalf of family members before making the public announcement and remains eager to arrange a meeting to address their worries.
“M&T Bank’s investment as well as that of other donors is supporting the university’s efforts to enhance and extend the life of the facility while continuing to recognize Mr. Gampel and his important place in UConn history,” the university said.
Physical and Digital Tributes on the Way
As part of the ongoing arena renovations, UConn plans to expand recognition of the Gampel name. These updates include enhanced back-lit exterior signage at multiple public entrances, new interior floor-level signage, expanded online recognition, and the creation of a physical tribute to Mr. Gampel and the arena’s championship history.
