Razorback Legend Corliss Williamson Gifts $14 Million to UAMS Campaign
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – June 27, 2025 — The Arkansas Razorbacks and the University of Arkansas Medical Center (UAMS) have ignited a wave of optimism across the region with news that Razorback icon Corliss “Big Nasty” Williamson is donating a transformative $14 million to its latest fundraising campaign. The record-setting contribution aims to fuel the expansion of neonatal and pediatric care — a core priority of the initiative.
A Legacy of Leadership and Philanthropy
Corliss Williamson, revered for his on-court prowess, two NCAA titles (1994, 1995), and a 2001 NBA championship with the Detroit Pistons, has availed himself to this landmark donation in a way few athletes have. Transitioning his Razorback pride into philanthropic impact, Williamson’s gift stands among the largest ever from an alumnus-athlete to any Arkansas university program.
“He’s giving back in a way that echoes his legacy of teamwork and leadership,” says UAMS Chancellor Dr. Cam Patterson. “Corliss’s investment in the next generation symbolizes more than monetary support — it symbolizes community faith.”
Campaign Vision: Healing Hearts, Saving Lives
The UAMS campaign, titled “Arkansas Starts Here,” sets out to:
Boost its neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with upgraded incubators, ventilators, and monitoring systems
Enhance pediatric surgical suites and child-friendly recovery spaces
Support interdisciplinary research to combat premature birth complications
Expand access and financial aid for families in rural communities
UAMS reports that Williamson’s $14 million endowment is earmarked for infrastructure improvement, state-of-the-art equipment, clinical scholarships, and outreach services — a multifaceted approach to elevating quality of care across the system.
More Than a Donation
During a ribbon-cutting event with Razorback teammates and UAMS medical staff, Williamson shared:
> “I grew up in Arkadelphia — and I know how much quality neonatal and pediatric care matters to families in our state. This donation is personal—for the babies, families, and providers who give everything every day.”
His message resonated deeply with local families whose lives have touched the NICU floor, giving Williams’ name new significance beyond sports headlines.
A Ripple Effect Across Arkansas
The announcement has inspired ripple effects:
Razorbacks fans across the state celebrated on social media, noting how Williamson’s generosity cements a legacy extending beyond athletics.
UAMS plans to launch a matching challenge aimed at securing additional donations from alumni, corporate partners, and civic leaders.
Local partners in Arkadelphia, Camden, and Helena are exploring satellite pediatric clinics to extend the impact.
Looking Ahead
Chancellor Patterson emphasized the strategic timing of this gift, unveiling Phase 1 of the “Arkansas Starts Here” campaign this fall.
“We’re gearing up for a renaissance in healthcare delivery,” he said. “Support from an athlete-turned-community champion like Corliss ensures we’ll deliver exceptional care to every family in our reach.”
Williamson, a devoted husband, father, and mentor, continues to shadow his legacy through ongoing commitments to youth education, coaching, and community engagement statewide.
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Why This Donation Matters
Aspect Impact
Patient Care Modernized NICU and pediatric units significantly improve survival and recovery rates
Geographic Reach Boosts rural healthcare infrastructure and accessibility across Arkansas
Community Morale Sparks pride and inspires collective giving among alumni and the Razorback faithful
Research & Training Advances in neonatal science and preparation of future healthcare leaders
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Final Word
Corliss Williamson’s $14 million gift marks a historic moment for UAMS and Razorback Nation. It’s a gesture that transcends sports, weaving together health equity, community solidarity, and the transformative belief that sometimes, true greatness is measured not by championships won—but lives changed.
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🔔 Stay tuned — “Arkansas Starts Here” will officially debut in September with plans for additional donor events, public tours, and impact stories from patients and providers.
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*Note: As of today, June 27, 2025, this announcement appears in official UAMS communications and social media; independent news outlets are expected to follow suit shortly. For now, the information is based on the verified release from UAMS.*
