CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Over on the University of North Carolina Charlotte's campus at Jerry Richardson Stadium, the conversation is about more than football.

  • Richardson contributed $10 million to the school's football team
  • Following racial discrimination and sexual harassment claims, the stadium's name will remain the same
  • First home game is set for Sept. 1

Before the former Panthers owner was fined millions by the NFL for alleged racial discrimination and sexual harassment, his name and likeness were added to a number of buildings and sports facilities, including the 49ers football stadium.

After consideration, it has been determined that the university will honor the naming rights agreement with Richardson, according to the university’s associate vice chancellor for university communications.

It’s been there since the first game back in 2013 when Richardson contributed $10 million to the institution’s efforts to launch a football team. It was well before the sexual misconduct allegations.

“I mean, it’s Jerry Richardson Stadium. [It] kind of has, flat out, it has his name on it and now that’s going to be always linked to him and so that is now linked to us,” student John Partin said.

“Well, I can understand why they would keep his name, because UNC Charlotte has needed and wanted a football team for a very long time and he has donated a lot of money so they could finally have that, however, his name does have negative connotation to it now. I think every time you see his name anywhere it’s just going to bring bad feelings,” student Leslie Schmidt said.

Students and fans will be welcomed to Jerry Richardson Stadium for the first home game on Sept. 1.

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