Blank Foundation commits $2 million to College Football Hall of Fame

General manager Thomas Dimitroff (from left), owner Arthur Blank, coach Dan Quinn and President and CEO Rich McKay pose for a photo at the end of a news conference introducing Quinn as coach on Feb. 3 in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com

Credit: D. Orlando Ledbetter

Credit: D. Orlando Ledbetter

General manager Thomas Dimitroff (from left), owner Arthur Blank, coach Dan Quinn and President and CEO Rich McKay pose for a photo at the end of a news conference introducing Quinn as coach on Feb. 3 in Flowery Branch. Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com

FLOWERY BRANCH – Falcons owner Arthur Blank recently announced that the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation was making a $2 million commitment to the College Football Hall of Fame in downtown Atlanta.

The funds will go toward the continued development of the new Hall of Fame, as well as to charitable and civic initiatives.

“This tremendous facility recaptures great moments in college football and pays tribute to its players, coaches and fans like no other place in the world,” Blank said.

“It’s a place that residents, visitors and fans of all ages and school allegiances want to visit. As someone who loves the game, loves the competition and loves the teamwork, camaraderie and other life skills football instills in everyone it touches, it’s a place I’m proud to support.”

Fans visiting the College Football Hall of Fame will see prominent signage recognizing the partnership in the Quad area of the attraction.

“We’re incredibly honored and grateful for the support and unmatched generosity of Arthur, The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, and the Atlanta Falcons,” College Football Hall of Fame president John Stephenson said. “We look forward to working together to continue to share the passion and excitement associated with this great sport.”

The National Football Foundation was also pleased with the gift.

"Arthur Blank understands all that is good about our great sport of football and we are so grateful for his partnership,” said National Football Foundation president Steve Hatchell.

Over the past decade, the Blank Foundation has invested nearly $10 million into efforts to improve the quality of life in the neighborhoods on the west side of Atlanta.