University of Louisville Athletics Announces $2 Million Gift from Isac and Carrie Roths to Support Stadium Lighting Enhancements
January 22, 2026 | Football, General
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - University of Louisville Athletics announced a $2 million commitment over 10 years from longtime suporters Isac and Carrie Roths.
This morning, the University of Louisville Athletic Association (ULAA) Board approved a stadium lighting enhancement project at L&N Cardinal Stadium, which will be supported by the Roths' gift.
The Roths' commitment will help initiate renovations to the stadium's lighting system—an essential infrastructure investment that directly enhances the game-day experience for fans and student-athletes. The current lighting system is largely original to the stadium's opening in 1998, apart from east-side fixtures that were replaced during the 2010 expansion.
The approved LED interactive upgrade will modernize L&N Cardinal Stadium, improving visibility, safety, and in-game atmosphere while bringing the venue in line with contemporary standards across Power 4 football programs.
"Isac and Carrie Roths continue to demonstrate extraordinary leadership through their investment in the future of Louisville Athletics," said Josh Heird, Vice President and Director of Athletics. "Their $2 million commitment allows us to advance a fan-facing project that will significantly elevate the game-day environment and provide our student-athletes with a first-class home field experience."
Heird emphasized the broader importance of facility investment in today's collegiate athletics landscape.
"Facilities matter in today's college football landscape," Heird said. "Upgrading our lighting enhances the energy and atmosphere of a gameday and ensures that the fan-experience at L&N Cardinal Stadium reflects the level of excellence our program represents. We are deeply grateful to the Roths family for their leadership and continued support."
The Roths have been longtime supporters of the University of Louisville, with previous gifts benefiting the Thornton's Academic Center of Excellence, Denny Crum Hall, and both the 2010 and 2018 expansions of L&N Cardinal Stadium.
The lighting enhancements are expected to be completed in advance of the 2026–27 football season.
