Donor Spotlight
The Zeigler Family
This gift from aaron and bonnie zeigler is just another example of their love and devotion to michigan state and to our athletics program... they represent the very best of who spartans are.
Michigan State Athletics has received a leadership gift and commitment from Aaron (1995, Business) and Bonnie Zeigler, dedicated to strengthening the foundation of the MSU men's basketball and football programs. The contributions will support the Athletic Director's Men's Basketball Resource Fund, as well as excellence funds for both the men's basketball and football teams. In addition, and beginning in 2023, the Zeiglers have pledged a significant, multi-year commitment in support of the new Tom Izzo Football Building. In recognition for their philanthropic leadership, they will be recognized as Victory Circle members of The Athlos Society, the highest of athletics giving.
MSU athletics thanks aaron and bonnie for their transformative gift and commitment in support of the football and men's basketball programs. we're fortunate to have aaron, bonnie, and the zeigler family partner with us in multiple ways to enhance the experience for more than 700 spartan student-athletes.
Aaron owns the Zeigler Auto Group, consisting of 35 locations and 83 franchises; Zeigler Motorsports, the world's largest motorsports dealership; as well as the Trak-Houz restaurant and multiple race tracks. “The business college at MSU taught me what I needed to know to be successful in the business world,” Aaron said. “Athletics has always provided a connection for us to the university.”
My first donation was ten years ago after I heard Tom Izzo speak and his vision was amazing,” said Aaron. “I want to give back to the university that has given our family so much.”
The Zeiglers have been married for 24 years and have four children. Avery is a sophomore at MSU and a manager for the donor feature men's basketball team. Makenzie attends the University of Alabama, and twins, Paige and Lily, are freshman in high school. “I'm most proud of my family,” Aaron said. “We enjoy spending time together and participating in outdoor activities. I also enjoy building businesses and creating opportunities for my employees. Our favorite thing to do as a family is attend MSU football and basketball games.”
“The Zeigler Family has been a constant supporter of not only our men's basketball and football programs, but many of our student-athletes and teams,” said head men's basketball coach, Tom Izzo. “They have invested in helping to develop our teams reach a higher level, both on and off the field. Aaron and Bonnie have become great friends and their generosity and commitment to Michigan State is tremendous.”
When asked what made now the right time to contribute to MSU Athletics, Zeigler said, “Our athletic director and coaches have an amazing vision for the future and we want to help them achieve their goals. Our family really enjoys attending the games as well as our relationship with our world-class coaches.”
We want to help make msu the best university in the country. we really enjoy watching the university grow and our sports teams to have lots of success.
As for a life lesson to pass on, Zeigler answered, “Think big and be aggressive. Be relentless in achieving your goals.”