Pocatello, Idaho – Announced today by Idaho State University, Jim '64 and Mary Lou Lynch have made a generous multi-year commitment totaling $24,000 to the Idaho State University department of athletics. The Lynch's donation will specifically support the Idaho State University football team through the cost of attendance fund.
The Lynch's gift will be distributed over a span of six years, providing $4,000 annually to support deserving football student-athletes. This particular support will be awarded to a football student-athlete who is pursuing a degree in business, continuing Jim's legacy as a standout football player and business major during his time at ISU.
Reflecting on his time at Idaho State University, Jim Lynch fondly reminisced about his football career and the impact of receiving support during his college years. "During my final year in college, I received the Paul Bistline Scholarship which was two checks for $500.00 each. That was a surprise to both Mary Lou and I and made a big difference in our lives at that time. We have never forgotten it," said Lynch.
"It is very special to hear Jim and Mary Lou's story. Whenever someone recalls the help they received and speaks about the way it impacted their life, then chooses to invest in a young person and program today, it is an uplifting reminder of how fortunate we are to have such a generous and thoughtful Bengal Family. The Lynch family really understands our mission to provide student-athletes with a great experience highlighted by a top-shelf education representing a solid foundation for a good and prosperous life. I love this sentiment, and I could not be more appreciative to Jim and Mary Lou for stepping forward in such a robust way, and for such a perfect reason," noted Pauline Thiros, Director of Athletics.
Jim's connection to ISU spans many years, having been recruited to play football for the university in 1961 by Babe Cassia. He graduated from the College of Business in January 1964 with a degree in Marketing. Following his graduation, Lynch pursued a successful career, including roles as Engine Sales Manager at various Caterpillar dealerships and later as the owner of a farm machinery dealership in The Dalles, Oregon.
"We have had a good life thanks to hard work and the education I received. I was fortunate to have full scholarships as long as I played football and was able to get good jobs. Now I am able to pay it forward to some other young student-athlete. This Cost of Attendance gift will be a nice boost to a hardworking athlete," said Jim Lynch.
The Lynch's commitment to supporting the next generation of student-athletes at Idaho State University demonstrates their dedication to giving back to the university community that played a pivotal role in shaping Jim's life.
"Here at Idaho State we have the opportunity to the best in the Big Sky Conference in cost of attendance and contributions like this from the Lynch family will allow us to do this at an elite level," shares Cody Hawkins, Head Football Coach. "As a whole, the Big Sky is the best FCS football conference in America and supporting cost of attendance is crucial for the recruitment and retention of the caliber of student-athletes that we want to attract. I could not not be more appreciative of what Jim and Mary Lou are doing to support the Bengals!".
Interested in making a contribution to the cost of attendance fund or a different area within the Bengal athletics? You can do so by visiting this page, or by reaching out to Crew Keller, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development and External Relations, via email (crewkeller@isu.edu) for more information.
