Richard Announces Strategic Partnership with San Diego State University Athletics and JMI Sports
SAN DIEGO, CA (February 5, 2025) – Richard, a leading purpose-driven general contractor, announces its strategic partnership with San Diego State University Athletics, becoming an official sponsor of the SDSU Aztecs' football and basketball programs. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Richard's West Coast expansion and reinforces the company's commitment to supporting military communities and educational excellence.
The partnership aligns with San Diego State's strong military heritage and Richard's dedication to veteran support, highlighted through special military appreciation initiatives at both football and basketball games. During the 2024 football season, Richard hosted a ceremonial military coin toss, while Aztec basketball games feature a military ball presentation, honoring service members and veterans in the San Diego community.
"San Diego State University's commitment to excellence and its deep military connections make this partnership a natural fit for Richard," said Jed Richard, CEO of Richard. "As we expand our presence on the West Coast, we're proud to support an institution that shares our values of purpose-driven leadership and service to the military community. The Aztecs' remarkable success on the court and field mirrors our own commitment to excellence in everything we do."
The partnership comes during an exciting time for SDSU Athletics, with the men's basketball team ranked in the AP Top 25 and continuing their tradition of excellence following last season's Final Four appearance. The Aztecs' commitment to both athletic and academic achievement reflects Richard's own emphasis on excellence and continuous improvement.
"We're thrilled to welcome Richard as a partner of SDSU Athletics," said Erik Judson, CEO of JMI Sports. "Their dedication to supporting military communities and commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with the values of San Diego State. This partnership goes beyond athletics – it's about building meaningful connections within our community and honoring those who serve our country."
The partnership includes prominent branding presence at both Snapdragon Stadium and Viejas Arena, along with continued military appreciation initiatives throughout the athletic seasons.
About Richard: Established in 2014, Richard is a nationally recognized, purpose-driven general contracting company headquartered in Chicago, IL. Founded by veteran Jed Richards, the award-winning company is known for building efficient and dynamic spaces that advance community, sustainability, and well-being nationwide. By prioritizing a people-first culture, Richard has earned numerous accolades, including recognition as one of the Fastest Growing Companies and Best Places to Work by Crain’s Chicago Business, as well as Inc. 5000 Best Workplaces, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.
About San Diego State University: San Diego State University is a major public research institution that provides transformative experiences for its more than 36,000 students. SDSU offers bachelor's degrees in 96 areas, master's degrees in 84 fields and doctorates in 23 areas, with additional certificates and programs at regional microsites. SDSU ranks as the number 1 California State University in federal research support, as one of the top public research universities in California. In addition to academic offerings at SDSU, SDSU Imperial Valley and SDSU Georgia, SDSU Global Campus offers online training, certificates and degrees in areas of study designed to meet the needs of students everywhere. Students participate in transformational research, international experiences, sustainability and entrepreneurship initiatives, internships and mentoring, and a broad range of student life and leadership opportunities. SDSU is committed to inclusive excellence and is known for its efforts in advancing diversity and inclusion. SDSU is nationally recognized for its study abroad initiatives, veterans' programs and support of LGBTQA+ students, as well as its powerhouse Division I Athletics Program. About 50% of SDSU's undergraduate and graduate students are students of color. The university resides on Kumeyaay land and was most recently recognized as an Asian American Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI). SDSU is also a long-standing Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). The university's rich campus life and location offers opportunities for students to lead and engage with the creative and performing arts, career and internship opportunities with SDSU's more than 491,000 living alumni, and the vibrant cultural life of the greater San Diego and U.S.- Mexico region.
Media Contact: Colleen Richardson, Director of Marketing, colleen.richardson@richardgroup.com