Jim Nantz Proudly Donates $1 Million After Taking on New Leadership Society Role

 “I want people to feel the call,” broadcasting legend Jim Nantz said, stepping up in support of the University of Houston Athletics. And Nantz felt the call himself. The iconic voice of Augusta showed his commitment to the university, making a pledge that’s bound to leave an impact for years to come. In support of the university’s leadership society, Nantz pledged $200,000 for 5 years, a total of $1 million. Let’s take a look at why he made the pledge—and what this means for the university.

As a part of the newly established Nantz Leadership Society, Jim Nantz’s pledge came in during an emotional evening at the $130 million football operations center. The Society aims to uplift and support the college athletes by means of enhancing the areas of Student Athlete Development, Sports Medicine & Performance, Nutrition, and Mental Health. As a member of the NLS, the society is looking for individuals who will commit to the cause. The contributions are tax-deductible and payable over a span of 5 years.

Being a part of the leadership society, Nantz felt the need to be connected to NLS at the grassroots level. Pledging in front of 400 supporters, Nantz said, “If I’m going to be a part of this leadership society, this is another way that I want to find a way to give. I’ve got to be a part of this team too, on this side of it.” Named in honor of his family, Nantz shared his true inspiration. “I had great parents, they did a lot for me,” Nantz told PaperCity. “And they were there with me in spirit when I stood in front of that group of 400 people who believed in the Nantz Leadership Society.”

The evening also brought out UH basketball coach Kelvin Sampson, who left an event at his own home to join Nantz on campus. “Jim’s a special man,” Sampson declared. Joined by Nantz’s sister, Nancy Hockaday, the evening was more than the launch of an organisation. It was a revolution taking place in real time. However, the true highlight of the day was Nantz’s inspiring words. “Feel the calling. Feel it inside your heart,” Nantz shared with the supporters and early members. “This is a part of you. You’re going to be proud. It’s never going to let you down. You’re a part of this university, and you were there to help seed it and see it soar.” 

Jim Nantz’s pledge is more than just money. In fact, it demonstrates both leadership and confidence in the University of Houston. Moreover, his support for the Nantz Leadership Society not only provides vital resources for student-athletes but also significantly strengthens university programs. In addition, it inspires other donors to contribute, thereby helping to expand and energize the university’s support network. As UH continues to approach its centennial, contributions like his are crucial in further elevating the university’s profile.

If you are interested in being a part of the cause, you can fill out your contribution form here.

Jim Nantz’s contributions beyond sports

One of Jim Nantz’s most impactful contributions is undoubtedly the Nantz National Alzheimer Center at Houston Methodist Hospital. Jim Nantz established it after the disease claimed his father, and it specifically aims to advance research toward a cure for Alzheimer’s. Moreover, as a heartfelt tribute to his family, the center not only focuses on cutting-edge research but also emphasizes physician training and provides comprehensive care for patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

The NNAC has already made significant breakthroughs. For example, researchers linked excess tau protein to Alzheimer’s brain dysfunction and mapped tau progression in dementia. Building on this work, the center is now focused on developing early diagnostics and more effective treatments. Ultimately, the goal is to find a cure. In addition, the NNAC actively raises awareness and funding to combat this devastating disease.