WACO, Texas (Jan. 12, 2026) – Baylor University today announced the largest gift in Baylor Baseball program’s history – a gift from Magnolia, the Waco-based and nationally recognized lifestyle company founded by Baylor alumni Chip and Joanna Gaines. The gift will name Magnolia Field at Baylor Ballpark and support the program’s anticipated capital projects.
“The consistent presence and generosity of Chip and Joanna through their time and resources have been invaluable to Baylor University over these past 12 years. From hosting events at their facilities to serving on planning and advisory groups, speaking at events and financially supporting Baylor Athletics and other areas within the University, these dedicated alumni continue to invest in their alma mater and this city we call home. Their hospitality through the ongoing operations of Magnolia Silos and its brand extensions has given Baylor new opportunities to connect with our Central Texas neighbors and visitors from around the world,” said Baylor President Linda A. Livingstone, Ph.D. “We celebrate this gift, which will help us to widen our welcome and offer unique experiences for fans of all ages. We look forward to cheering for Baylor Baseball at Magnolia Field this spring.”
Celebrated Baylor alumni Chip (BBA ’98) and Joanna (BA ’01) Gaines rose to national prominence through their distinctive home-renovation style and entrepreneurial vision, building Magnolia into a multi-platform, global brand and launching Magnolia Network following the success of their hit HGTV series “Fixer Upper”.
“Today is a historic day for Baylor Baseball and Baylor University. Our hometown-based Magnolia and its founders, Chip and Joanna Gaines, have been passionate supporters of Baylor for decades. Through their family’s special connection to baseball, this transformational gift will benefit not only Baylor Baseball, but all student-athletes and coaches across Baylor Athletics,” said Doug McNamee, vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics at Baylor. “We celebrate the generosity of Magnolia and the Gaines Family and are encouraged by others who will follow as we continue investing in this tradition-rich program that consistently produces outstanding representatives of our institution. Thank you to Magnolia, Chip, Joanna, and the entire Gaines Family for being difference makers for Baylor Baseball and Baylor University.”
Magnolia is a longtime partner and supporter of Baylor Athletics, with popular and recognizable sponsorships at Baylor Football games and the second-half cupcake challenge enjoyed by the Baylor student section at Men’s and Women’s Basketball games. Founded on a guiding vision of helping people make space for meaningful moments in life and at home, Magnolia’s gift will do just that – build spaces that encourage the community to gather together in support of Baylor Baseball.
“Baylor has always been more than a university to us—it’s a place that shaped who we are and continues to shape leaders who care deeply about people,” said Magnolia founders Chip and Joanna Gaines. Baseball, in particular, has played a meaningful role in our family for generations. It’s where lessons are passed down, relationships are built, and memories are made—on and off the field. This gift is rooted in our gratitude for the coaches who pour into their athletes, the student-athletes who show up with heart and discipline every day, and the fans who gather to cheer them on. Our hope is that this investment helps carry that sense of tradition, belonging, and opportunity forward—for Baylor Baseball, for all of Baylor Athletics, and for everyone who calls themselves a Baylor Bear.”
Baylor Baseball is a consistent supporter of the greater Waco community, using the game as a catalyst for connection and shared purpose. Through annual participation in the Food for Families food drive and family-centered events such as Faith and Family Days, Fathers and Sons Night and Dads and Daughters Day, the program creates meaningful opportunities for fellowship and impact beyond the field. These efforts reflect Baylor Baseball’s commitment to living out Baylor’s mission by strengthening community and cultivating relationships that extend far beyond the ballpark.
“On behalf of everyone associated with Baylor Baseball, past and present, I am incredibly grateful to Chip and Joanna Gaines for their generosity and support of our program,” said Mitch Thompson, Baylor Baseball head coach. “Their investment is meaningful to all of us who have ever worn the green and gold on the diamond. This gift strengthens what we are building here and will help us to continue developing our players at the highest levels both on and off the field. I am thankful and blessed to be aligned with such dedicated alumni who share both our values and our vision for our program. We are excited and honored to compete at Magnolia Field at Baylor Ballpark this spring and beyond. Together, we look forward to future projects that will enhance the student-athlete experience and further elevate our program.”
ABOUT MAGNOLIA
Founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines and based in Waco, Texas, Magnolia is a home and lifestyle brand rooted in making space for meaningful moments in life and at home. Through thoughtfully created content, products, and experiences, Magnolia enriches lives, inspires connection, and empowers people to create spaces they love. For more information, visit magnolia.com and @Magnolia.
ABOUT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
Baylor University is a private Christian University and a nationally ranked Research 1 institution. The University provides a vibrant campus community for more than 20,000 students by blending interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence and a faculty commitment to teaching and scholarship. Chartered in 1845 by the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest continually operating University in Texas. Located in Waco, Baylor welcomes students from all 50 states and more than 90 countries to study a broad range of degrees among its 12 nationally recognized academic divisions.
