Old Dominion Alumnus and retired Richmond businessman Barry Kornblau has donated $3 million to help the University fund the $67.5 million reconstruction of S.B. Ballard Stadium. The gift is the largest received by ODU athletics in 13 years. A 1971 graduate of ODU, Kornblau has donated more money to athletics than any other alumnus. “I’m doing this for our alumni and our student-athletes,” Kornblau said. “I want our team to have a decent place to play and a place for our alumni and students to attend games with bathrooms and concessions stands that are up to modern standards.”
In addition to his most recent donation, Kornblau has given more than $2 million to ODU’s baseball program, and his support extends beyond athletics. He has an endowed scholarship in the Strome School of Business for Real Estate, a nod to his long career in apartment development and acquisition before retiring a few years ago. He’s also given generously of his time. Kornblau served on various academic and athletic boards, including three terms on the ODU Board of Visitors.
In 2004, the alumni center just off 49th Street was named the Barry M. Kornblau Alumni Center.