Iconic Spot at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium Renamed Lee Chira Family Heisman Plaza
Monday, April 6, 2015 | Football
GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- One of the most photographed spots in Gator Athletics will have a new name – the Lee Chira Family Heisman Plaza.
The life-size statues of Florida's three Heisman Trophy Winners – Steve Spurrier, Danny Wuerffel and Tim Tebow - are located on the West side of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and are a popular photo opportunity for visitors to campus.
“The Heisman represents excellence in both leadership and athletics, both of which are important to me,” said Lee Chira. “Our family has a strong belief in giving back, so this was an excellent opportunity to make a $1.5 million dollar commitment to the University of Florida.”
Lee is a real estate developer and investor in Orlando. A native of Hollywood, Fla., he attended the University of Florida, receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 1965. While attending UF, he was a member of the track team, lettering for three years, and was a member of the Pi Lamda Phi fraternity.
Lee has served in numerous civic roles including: Orange County Commissioner, Chair of the Florida High Speed Rail, Florida Affordable Housing Commission, Greater Orlando Chamber of Commerce, Fannie Mae National Advisory Board, Central Florida Sports Commission and the Director of Security National Bank, as well as a director on many other community and business boards.
Lee has two daughters, Michelle Carlton and Nicole Warot. Michelle enjoys going to Gator games with her husband, Charlie, and their two daughters, Caroline and Abby. Nicole lives in Denver with her husband Drew and their two children, Alex and Lauren, who faithfully watch games at the Gator Booster gatherings.
