The Georgetown Department of Athletics has received $5 million, its largest gift ever, from Edward (COL ’66) and Irene Shaw.

Four million dollars will be used for the construction of the Intercollegiate Athletic Center, a facility for student-athletes that was originally proposed as part of the 2000 Campus Plan. The building is expected to cost about $55 million in total.

The remaining $1 million of the Shaws’ gift is marked toward improving Kehoe Field, which will be renamed Shaw Field in honor of the couple’s contribution and support of men’s and women’s soccer teams.

Edward Shaw expressed his belief in the importance of Georgetown athletics.

“Irene and I have always been firm believers in the value of intercollegiate athletics to gather our community, build school spirit and enhance the undergraduate experience —not only the team members but also for their classmates and friends,” Shaw told Georgetown Athletics. “Our commitment reinforces this belief, along with the value of nationally competitive programs to enhance Georgetown University for now and years to come.”