At a Glance
- Chip and Joanna Gaines donated the largest gift in Baylor Baseball program history on January 12
- The couple, both Baylor alumni, dedicated Magnolia Field at Baylor Ballpark
- Their donation will also fund future athletic capital projects
- Why it matters: The HGTV stars’ gift cements their decades-long support for their alma mater
Chip and Joanna Gaines have stepped up to the plate with a historic donation to Baylor University. The HGTV stars revealed on January 12 that they made the largest gift in Baylor Baseball program history, unveiling Magnolia Field at Baylor Ballpark.
The Record-Breaking Gift
The couple, who graduated from Baylor in 1998 and 2001 respectively, celebrated the dedication wearing matching Baylor baseball jerseys. The exact amount of their donation wasn’t disclosed, but Baylor University confirmed it represents the largest gift ever made to their baseball program.
“It’s an honor and a privilege.. really to be honest, a lifelong dream to partner with @BaylorBaseball!!” Chip wrote on Instagram. “We are incredibly proud to introduce @Magnolia Field at Baylor Ballpark!”
Beyond naming the field, the Gaines’ contribution will support anticipated capital projects within the athletic department. The dedication ceremony included the couple meeting the Baylor baseball team and unveiling the new Magnolia Field signage painted on the grass.
A Personal Connection
The donation reflects deep personal ties to both Baylor and baseball. Chip was a standout second baseman in high school who initially came to Baylor to play baseball. After attending North Lake Junior College, he was recruited to play for Baylor, though his college baseball dreams ended when the coach who recruited him retired.
“[Baseball] got me in the front door at Baylor. As God would have it, I was not destined to be the next great baseball player, but I was destined to enjoy Baylor University and the dear friends that I met there,” he told Baylor Magazine.
The couple’s connection to baseball extends to the next generation – their sons Drake and Duke both play baseball.
Baylor’s Impact on Their Journey
In a statement shared on the university’s website, the Gaines expressed how Baylor shaped their lives: “Baylor has always been more than a university to us. It’s a place that shaped who we are and continues to shape leaders who care deeply about people.”
They specifically highlighted baseball’s role in their family: “Baseball, in particular, has played a meaningful role in our family for generations. It’s where lessons are passed down, relationships are built, and memories are made-on and off the field.”
Years of Support
This major gift represents just one piece of the Gaines’ ongoing support for their alma mater. Previous involvement includes:
- Serving on university planning and advisory groups
- Speaking at Baylor events
- Financially supporting Baylor Athletics through the years
- Appearing as celebrity guest pickers on ESPN’s College GameDay when the show visited Waco in 2019
The couple’s lifestyle company, Magnolia, is based in Waco, keeping them connected to the university community.
Community Impact
The Gaines have demonstrated a pattern of supporting local baseball initiatives. In July 2024, Chip partnered with contractor Bobcat to renovate Bell’s Hill Park in their hometown.
“Spending time outside and being involved in community sports is such a big part of our family’s life, which makes me thrilled to partner with Bobcat here in Waco to renovate a local ballpark as they launch their national contest,” he said in a press release about that project.
The dedication ceremony at Baylor included Chip throwing a ceremonial pitch from the new mound, marking the official opening of Magnolia Field. The event brought together current players, university officials, and the couple whose generosity will impact Baylor baseball for generations.
Key Takeaways
- Chip and Joanna Gaines achieved what they called a “lifelong dream” by partnering with Baylor Baseball
- Their donation represents the largest gift in program history
- The couple’s connection to Baylor spans decades, from their student days to ongoing support
- Beyond the field naming, their gift will fund future athletic department improvements
