In big time philanthropy, naming rights for buildings is one of the big incentives that comes along with donating what is usually millions of dollars. But, eventually, those generously philantrophised buildings are eyed by schools as a new revenue source which is increasingly leading to battles with heirs of past benefactors. This is the dilemma that currently engulfs the University of Houston as it seeks to rename it’s basketball arena as part of a $20 million donation package. However, the heirs of the current namesake are up in arms over the proposal arguing that the agreement the university had with their father kept the arena under his name as long as it stands. Currently, a hearing is scheduled on May 10 for a suit that is pending to stop the school from going forward with any change of name. This case will likely be watched with great interest by other organizations as it is more than just UofH who is seeking to go down that path of lucrative new naming right deals.
See, U. of Houston Donor’s Heirs Sue Over Plan to Rename Arena, Philanthropy.com, May 5, 2016.
Special thanks to Brian Cohan (Attorney at Law, Law Offices of Brian J. Cohan, P.C.) for bringing this article to my attention.
