Michie Stadium Preservation Project Support Spotlight: Lichtenberg Family
WEST POINT, N.Y. – In honor of Herb “Kelly” Lichtenberg, Class of 1955, the Lichtenberg family has contributed a $2.5 million gift to the Michie Stadium Preservation Project.
Herb is remembered for his legendary tailgates and generous support of West Point. Together, with his close friends Lou Gross, Class of 1954, and Carl Goldstein, an honorary member of the Class of 1955, his impact on the Academy – specifically Army West Point Athletics – is unparalleled. The Gross Gymnastics Center, Lichtenberg Tennis Center, Goldstein Field, the Class of 1955 coaches’ houses and the additional commitment to the Michie Stadium Preservation Project are physical reminders of their legacy.
There was never a question as to whether or not we were going to step up and continue the tradition.Scott Lichtenberg
For the Lichtenberg family, honoring their father’s commitment to give back to West Point is important. Most recently, brothers Michael and Scott Lichtenberg, along with their mother Trudy Lichtenberg, have directed their West Point philanthropy in support of the Michie Stadium Preservation Project via their substantial gift. They understand that football Saturdays at Michie Stadium are a key portal for the American public to witness cadet-athletes in action and experience the history and traditions of the Academy and have therefore stepped up to build momentum and raise funds for the project.
“For decades, the support from the Lichtenberg family has been humbling, and we can’t thank them enough for their continued generosity," Director of Athletics Mike Buddie said. "Their knowledge of this athletic department is second to none and they understand how this project will transform Army West Point."
Since 1924, Michie Stadium has served as the iconic backdrop for Army Football at West Point and the public’s portal to the Corps of Cadets and Army Officers who serve the nation. From the cadets marching on the parade field to honoring our graduates and service members on Blaik Field, Michie Stadium showcases the ideals of “Duty, Honor, Country” to the thousands of fans in its seats and to television audiences across the United States.
In this project, the existing East Stands will be removed, and a new 160,000-square-foot structure will be built in its place that will include premium club level seating and various hospitality options, a new fan store, upgraded concessions and amenities, and improved stadium accessibility (entry and exit). In addition, the Corps of Cadets seating section will stretch end zone to end zone ensuring that the cadets are a central focus as well as amplifying game-day support of the cadet-athletes on the field.
“Athletics has been a key area because it’s not funded by the government the way academic and military programs are. When you think about cadets who are in one of the most rigorous academic programs anywhere, then have military training, then on top of this they are willing to devote the time and effort to compete at a Division I level in their sports, they are not going to perform their best without the best facilities and support available,” Lichtenberg added.
For more information or to make a gift, please contact info@michiestadium.com or visit michiestadium.com.
About AWPAA
AWPAA, a 501(c)(3) organization that executes the USMA's intercollegiate athletics mission, is a non-Federal entity and is not fundraising on behalf of USMA. The appearance of USMA marks or images does not imply endorsement of AWPAA by the USMA, Department of the Army, or Department of Defense.
Published July 27, 2021