College of Business Receives $10 Million Gift From
Silicon Valley Entrepreneurs Donald and Sally Lucas

Thursday, Feb. 2, 2006 - Silicon Valley business leaders and San José State University alumni Donald and Sally Lucas have donated an extraordinary gift of $10 Million to the College of Business in support of the graduate business programs. This gift will transform the College of Business and provide greater opportunities to future generations of our community. It is the largest single individual gift in the university’s history.

San José State University news release on the gift

Spring 2006 Dividends issue featuring the Lucas Gift (PDF)

Biographies

Donald Lee Lucas, ’59 Marketing, is the founder and former CEO of the Lucas Dealership Group, one of the first multiple franchise automobile companies in the country. In 1999, it was one of the top 25 automobile companies in the country with 900 employees and generating almost $500 Million in annual revenue. The business grew from a used car lot on San Carlos Street that Donald opened in 1957 while pursuing his bachelor’s degree. Four years after graduating, Donald opened his first new-car dealership - the first of 40. His business represented many manufacturers, including the first U.S. Honda and Saturn dealerships. In 2000, Donald sold the Lucas Dealership Group, retaining most of the real estate holdings. He currently heads Lucas Trust Ventures, which oversees his real estate and private investment holdings.

Sally Steadman Lucas, ’57 Primary Education, is the former owner of SL Interior Designs. Sally is also a prominent arts philanthropist who serves as a trustee for the non-profit Montalvo Arts Center. She was the motivating force behind the establishment of the Sally and Don Lucas Artists Programs, Montalvo Artist Residency Center in Saratoga, California. Sally has also volunteered for many public service groups and has a strong interest in the arts and programs for disadvantaged youth.