Saban Funds ‘The Process Center’: A $75 Million Donation from Nick and Terry Saban to Build a Groundbreaking Mental Health and Leadership Facility for All University
Nick Saban, one of the most legendary coaches in the history of college football, is once again making headlines—but this time, it’s not about championships or recruiting classes. Together with his wife Terry, Saban has announced a transformative $75 million donation to create The Process Center, a state-of-the-art facility focused on mental health, leadership development, and holistic well-being for students, athletes, and faculty across the university community.
The gift, which is one of the largest donations ever made by a sports figure to a higher education institution, aims to address a critical issue in today’s fast-paced academic and athletic environment: the growing demand for comprehensive mental health support and leadership training. The Sabans, long known for their philanthropic initiatives, described the project as a culmination of their shared commitment to shaping not only better athletes but stronger people.
“We’ve always believed that success isn’t just about wins and losses,” said Nick Saban at the announcement ceremony. “It’s about building people of character, resilience, and integrity. The Process Center will be a place where students and staff can develop the tools they need to thrive in all aspects of life—mentally, emotionally, and as leaders in their communities.”
The name of the center pays homage to Saban’s famous coaching mantra, The Process, which emphasizes discipline, focus, and daily improvement. Yet, the facility will expand that philosophy beyond the football field, providing an environment where the entire university community can benefit from its principles.
Plans for The Process Center include a modern counseling and wellness hub, leadership academies, mindfulness training programs, and crisis intervention resources. The building itself will feature open collaborative spaces, technology-driven learning labs, and private areas for therapy and support groups. Experts in psychology, leadership studies, and organizational development will be brought in to lead workshops and create research-driven initiatives.
University President Dr. [Insert Name] hailed the Sabans’ contribution as a “game-changer” for both the institution and the broader higher education landscape. “This is about more than just one university. It’s about setting a national example for how we take care of students as whole individuals,” the president said. “Nick and Terry Saban have given us the means to provide world-class resources that will impact generations to come.”
Athletes in particular are expected to benefit greatly from the facility, as student-athletes often face unique pressures balancing academics, performance expectations, and public visibility. By offering tailored support programs, the center hopes to combat burnout, anxiety, and other challenges while equipping athletes with leadership skills that last well beyond their playing days.
Terry Saban emphasized the personal motivation behind the gift: “We’ve seen firsthand the struggles young people face today. It’s not just about helping them succeed on the field or in the classroom—it’s about helping them live healthier, more balanced, and more purposeful lives.”
Construction of The Process Center is expected to begin within the next year, with completion projected in 2027. Once finished, it will stand as a landmark not just of bricks and mortar, but of the Sabans’ enduring legacy: a commitment to excellence, compassion, and the belief that true success lies in empowering others.
With this unprecedented donation, Nick and Terry Saban are proving once again that their greatest victories may come not from football trophies, but from investing in the future of people.
—
