Oaklawn president donates $500,000 to Razorback Foundation

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort President Louis Cella has donated $500,000 to the Razorback Foundation at the University of Arkansas and is challenging other businesses to contribute to the foundation.

Cella, a graduate of the University of Arkansas School of Law, said in a statement that “these are tough financial times for college sports,” and the foundation is no exception.

“They are competing in the toughest conference in the nation, and regularly going up against schools with far greater resources,” said Cella. “If the Razorbacks are going to remain competitive, it’s going to take backing from all of us. … I realize this doesn’t solve the financial crunch for U of A athletics.  But if more Arkansas businesses will consider pitching in too, it will be a huge step in the right direction for Razorback nation.”

Oaklawn is working to add the Razorback Foundation to the Everi Cares Giving Module that is already installed on Oaklawn gaming voucher kiosks which racetrack and casino visitors use to donate to local charities.

“The University sincerely appreciates what Louis and other business leaders are doing,” said Razorback head football coach Sam Pittman, “And Louis is correct. This is what it is going to take for us to compete in the SEC and nationally.”

The foundation assists student-athletes by providing financial support for scholarships, facilities and various programs that enable them to participate on a nationally competitive level.