Larry Layne Leaves $17.3M Gift to UCLA Athletics

LOS ANGELES -- The UCLA Department of Athletics has announced a landmark bequest totaling $17.3 million from the late Lawrence “Larry” Layne (M.B.A. ’77), a lifelong Bruin whose generosity and connection to the university spanned more than six decades. The contribution represents the largest share of Layne’s overall estate commitment of more than $40 million and will directly bolster UCLA’s football and men’s basketball programs.

Layne’s ties to UCLA began in the 1970s when he enrolled at what is now the UCLA Anderson School of Management. While pursuing his graduate degree, he also competed in men’s rugby, developing a bond with the university that extended far beyond the classroom. A former student-athlete and coach, Layne remained deeply engaged with UCLA Athletics throughout his life, supporting numerous programs and facilities.

Of the $17.3 million directed to athletics, $9.6 million has been designated for the football program, with $7.7 million earmarked for men’s basketball. UCLA Director of Athletics Martin Jarmond described the gift as transformational, noting Layne’s passion for Bruin athletics and his desire to help the programs succeed in the rapidly evolving landscape of collegiate sports.

UCLA head football coach Bob Chesney emphasized the impact the bequest will have on building a competitive and sustainable program, highlighting Layne’s understanding of the commitment required to excel both academically and athletically. Men’s basketball head coach Mick Cronin similarly expressed gratitude, pointing to the importance of donor support in maintaining a program built on excellence and character.

Layne’s philanthropy extended well beyond athletics. His estate includes $11.4 million in support of UCLA Health, with funding directed toward cardiology and hepatology research. UCLA Anderson School of Management will receive $5.7 million to advance entrepreneurship and real estate studies, while men’s rugby, the sport that first connected Layne to UCLA, is set to benefit from $3.8 million. Additional support will go to the UCLA Center for the Art of Performance.

A successful real estate entrepreneur and founder of Nova Storage, Layne credited rugby with helping shape his professional path and personal values. Alongside his wife, Sheelagh Boyd, he made more than 300 gifts to UCLA over the years, including nearly 100 donations to UCLA Athletics alone. Layne’s legacy now stands as one of enduring commitment, ensuring future generations of Bruins benefit from his lifelong dedication to the university.