Boise State Athletics
Boise State Receives Second $1 Million Gift from Nicolaysen Family
6/18/2026 10:39:00 AM | General, Bronco Athletic Association
Local leaders invest in student-athletes, scholarships, and the future of the Treasure Valley
BOISE, Idaho – Boise State Athletics has received a second $1 million gift from the Nicolaysen family and ES-O-EN Management, LLC, reaffirming their deep commitment to student-athletes, higher education, and the communities they serve across Idaho and Oregon.
The investment strengthens support for Boise State Athletics, specifically, scholarships for men's and women's basketball, Bronco men's basketball enhancement fund, and North End Zone Project. The gift matches the Nicolaysen family's previous $1 million contribution in 2022, continuing a legacy of meaningful, community-driven impact.
"Thank you to the Nicolaysen family for your continued belief in What's Next," said Boise State Director of Athletics Jeramiah Dickey. "The Nicolaysen family always shows up for Boise State and Boise State Athletics. Their direct support of our basketball programs, among other projects, helps us keep raising the bar on the court. We are grateful for their generosity and commitment to create real opportunities for our student-athletes to succeed in competition and the classroom."
The Nicolaysen family's history of giving reflects a broader commitment to strengthening the Treasure Valley through philanthropy, workforce investment, and community partnerships.
"Our partnership with Boise State is about more than athletics, it's about impact," said Stephen Nicolaysen, Co-President and CFO. "When we invest in student-athletes and scholarships, we are investing in future leaders who will shape our communities. We are proud to support a university that continues to elevate our region and create opportunities for so many."
Beyond athletics, the contribution sustains the family's academic legacy through the Taco Bell Leadership Scholarship, which has provided critical financial support to Boise State students since 2008, benefiting 46 scholars to date.
"Scholarships are one of the most powerful types of philanthropy," noted Argia Beristain, CEO of the Boise State University Foundation. "They allow Boise State students to focus more on becoming the best versions of themselves and less on financial stressors. We are humbled by the Nicolaysen family's gift and the impact it will have on our student-athletes."
Visit BroncoSports.com for more information.
About Lyle Smith Society (LSS)
The LSS membership begins with a minimum pledge of $50,000 over a five-year period or donating an annual cash gift of $50,000 or more. Boise State Athletics establishes its top priorities, but LSS members have the flexibility to designate their gift to the fund of their choice. These funds include the Bronco Nation Fund, Women's Sports Fund, Sports Enhancement Funds, Endowments, capital projects, BroncoLife and Sports Performance, Health, and Wellness. Visit Lyle Smith Society to help ensure the future of Boise State Athletics and leave a legacy as a member of Bronco Nation.Â
About ES-O-EN Management, LLC
ES-O-EN Management, LLC and its Affiliated Companies own and operate 37 Taco Bell restaurants in Idaho and Oregon from Burley, ID to McMinnville, OR with 1,000+ employees. Headquartered in Meridian, ID and founded in 1969, ES-O-EN has been family-owned for 50+ years and three generations.
About Boise State University Foundation
A nonprofit Idaho organization, the Boise State University Foundation was established in 1964 to empower Boise State University with the resources necessary to thrive. The Foundation provides fundraising leadership and service across the university and partners with donors and alumni to inspire private support. Visit Boise State University Foundation to learn more.
