May 23, 2014 07:51 AM EDT By Staff Reporter, UniversityHerald Reporter

University of Notre Dame alumnus and trustee John W. "Jay" Jordan have gifted their alma mater $75 million, the largest in the school's history. Jordan now becomes the most generous supporter of Notre Dame with an overall contribution of $150 million.

The amount will be used to create a research program in the science and technology field, hire top faculty and students, provide laboratory supplies and equipment, support seed grants and create prototypes among others.

"Words cannot begin to express our deep appreciation for a gift of truly historic proportions," said Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., Notre Dame's president, in a statement. "Jay has given his time, talent and treasure for many years and this is the latest example of his extraordinary generosity on every level. We have been and will continue to be transformed by his unwavering support to his alma mater."

Jordan, a 1969 graduate of Notre Dame, received an honorary degree from the University in 2001. The Chicago business leader served on the Board since 1993.

His previous donations to the University include $30 million for the Jordan Hall of Science, $40 million for an unspecified purpose, support to the Jordan Auditorium in the Mendoza College of Business, The Malpass Scholars Program and numerous scholarships, fellowships and grants for the business college, athletics and the Alliance for Catholic Education.

"Although I am not very knowledgeable in the technology sector, I know how important it is for our country to maintain leadership in state-of-the-art technology," Jordan said. "It is not only critical for socio-economic reasons, but national security as well. I have always thought that you cannot invest too much in technology."

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