The U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation (USNA AA&F) and the Naval Academy Athletic Association (NAAA) are proud to announce a landmark $10 million commitment from Bruce R. Lakefield '67 and his wife, Bernadine, in support of the continued development of Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.
 
The Lakefields' generous gift will fund the design, construction, and long-term operation of a new pavilion in the stadium's north end zone.
 
"Early in my career, a mentor shared that life has three stages: a time to learn, a time to earn, and a time to return," said Lakefield. "Bernadine and I feel deeply fortunate that the Naval Academy and our shared Navy experience paved the way for a successful professional journey and fulfilling life together. Now, it is our privilege to return by supporting the Academy and helping future generations experience what shaped us so profoundly."
 
In recognition of this pivotal support, the new facility will be named The Bruce and Bernadine Lakefield Pavilion. The Lakefields' philanthropic plan was developed in close partnership with USNA AA&F leadership, as well as recently retired NAAA Director of Athletics, Chet Gladchuk, whose vision served as the catalyst for this monumental gift.
 
As Navy Athletics turns the page to a new chapter, this gift coincides with the recent appointment of Michael Kelly as the incoming President of the Naval Academy Athletic Association and Director of Athletics. Kelly assumes this role at a moment of remarkable momentum—the Lakefields' gift underscores the enduring impact of Gladchuk's tenure and provides a powerful springboard for continued excellence under new leadership.
 
"This transformational gift from Bruce and Bernadine Lakefield represents the very best of Naval Academy alumni leadership and generosity," said Kelly. "Their vision for what Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium can become aligns perfectly with our commitment to elevate the Physical Mission and enrich the experience for our midshipmen, alumni, and the community. This pavilion will not only honor the vision and impact of my predecessor, Chet Gladchuk, but it will serve as a cornerstone for the next great era of Navy Athletics. We are deeply appreciative of the Lakefields' trust and investment at such a pivotal time."
 
The Bruce and Bernadine Lakefield Pavilion will be a flagship feature of Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and the largest special event space in Anne Arundel County. Designed to serve both the Naval Academy and Annapolis community, it will host events including reunions, U.S. Naval Academy Brigade functions, and gameday hospitality. More than just a venue, the facility will stand as a testament to the Naval Academy's enduring commitment to strengthening the Physical Mission and investing in spaces that inspire excellence.
 
Longtime supporters of the Naval Academy, Bruce '67 and Bernadine Lakefield have a robust history of significant philanthropic investments to USNA AA&F. Their impact includes support for classified research spaces and capabilities in Hopper Hall, home to USNA's Center for Cyber Security Studies, as well as the Lakefield Family Foundation Distinguished Military Professor of Leadership at the Naval Academy's Stockdale Center for Ethical Leadership.
 
"This extraordinary gift from the Lakefield family reflects the lasting impact that our alumni and supporters can have on the Naval Academy," said Jeff Webb '95, CEO of USNA AA&F. "The Lakefields' commitment to our mission and the Brigade will be felt for generations. The Bruce and Bernadine Lakefield Pavilion will stand as a proud anchor at the north end of Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium—serving alumni, midshipmen, and the broader community for decades to come."