Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison has become a star in the NFL, but he has not forgotten his NCAA roots with the Kent State Golden Flashes. Harrison recently gifted $100,000 to school -- the Kent State Board of Trustees approved the gift on Wednesday -- and now the university will rename the Field House weight room to honor and recognize Harrison, a four-time Pro Bowl performer and the 2008 NFL AP Defensive Player of the Year. The weight room will be re-branded as The James Harrison Strength & Conditioning Center, and the linebacker's donation will go toward the Football Enhancement Fund, which contributes to programs such as scholarship support and facility upgrades.
Kent State Director of Athletics Joel Nielsen couldn't thank Harrison enough for his contribution (via KentStateSports.com):
"We are extremely grateful to James for his commitment to Kent State and the football program. He is one of the most recognizable figures in the NFL today and his support is sure to have a lasting effect on our student-athletes now and in the future."
Harrison was named First-Team All Mid-American Conference as a senior for the Golden Flashes when he recorded a record 12 sacks and 20 tackles for loss.