people wearing hat-size athletic fields on their heads

Illustration by John Krause / iSpot

Michael R.B. Uytengsu’s gift helps establish the USC Sports program at USC Marshall and USC Annenberg

The world’s biggest sporting events are coming to Los Angeles—the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Super Bowl LXI in 2027, and the 2028 Summer Olympics—as the global sports market undergoes unprecedented growth and change.

USC is ready to seize the moment.

Michael R.B. Uytengsu

Michael R.B. Uytengsu, photo courtesy of Skyland Partners LLC

A gift from USC Marshall School of Business alumnus Michael R.B. Uytengsu will help establish USC Sports, a new living laboratory for studying sport. The new effort leverages the power of USC academics, Trojan Athletics, and USC’s location in the capital of sports, media, and entertainment.

“We have an incredible foundation to create programs that not only heighten our position as a preeminent sports university but also establish us as the number one academic institution enhancing all aspects of sports—on and off the field,” Uytengsu said.

Think of USC Sports as a place of learning and professional development for everyone from athletes to owners, from journalists to agents. Led by USC Marshall and the USC Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism, it builds on programs and schools across USC.

Uytengsu has worn many hats in his career: investment banker, entrepreneur, vintner, and a leader in his family’s food business. The one he never takes off: Loyal Trojan. His family has long supported USC, too. His brother, Wilifred (Fred), a former USC men’s swimming captain, helped fund the Uytengsu Aquatics Center.

Before USC Sports, Michael Uytengsu bolstered USC Marshall and students through endowed scholarships and building expansions, as well as USC Athletics’ tennis program. His motivation: to support education and the American dream by making the university stronger and better.

“Philanthropy is way more than just about money,” he said. “It’s heart, soul, effort, and collaboration. Find something that excites you and you’ll be far more rewarded if you’re engaged versus just sending a check.”