Learn more about the Kellyanne Elizabeth Lytal Memorial Foundation

TACOMA, Wash. — The Pacific Lutheran University community showed its support for the victims of the Texas floods this summer, combining to donate $3,200 to the Kellyanne Elizabeth Lytal Memorial Foundation from tickets sales, donations, and a direct match from the President's Office.
 
The Lutes announced that 25 percent of all tickets sales from Saturday's non-conference finale against Trinity University (Texas) would be donated to the Kellyanne Elizabeth Lytal Memorial Foundation. The Foundation was established in honor of Trinity offensive coordinator Wade Lytal's daughter who tragically passed away on July 4, 2025 along wth 26 others during the flooding at Camp Mystic.
 
PLU raised $1,125 from ticket sales and received $950 in direct donations on gameday. Additionally, University President Allan Belton and the President's Office have generously done a dollar-to-dollar match of the ticket sales and will donate $1,125. 
 
"When connecting with the President's Office about this initiative, President Belton was moved and immediately stated he would match the donation from the ticket sales.  It just goes to show that the level of care that flows from PLU extends far beyond our corner of Tacoma," said Athletic Director Mike Snyder.
 
For both Snyder and Head Coach Brant McAdams, the cause was personal, both having known Wade Lytal. Snyder worked with Lytal at Illinois College while McAdams worked with Lytal at Trinity prior to taking the PLU head coaching job.
 
"Coach Wade Lytal and I worked together at Illinois College about 10 years ago. Coach McAdams also has a relationship with Wade from his time on the Trinity coaching staff. This industry is a small world, and when we both heard how his family was affected by this tragedy, we knew we needed to do something to help. Care is a core value of the University and I'm overjoyed that the Lute community came together to provide that support."

The Kellyanne Elizabeth Lytal Memorial Foundation supports meaningful philanthropic efforts that reflect Kellaynne's kind spirit and ensures that her light continues to shine brightly in the world. 
 
The Lutes are on a bye this Saturday but will host Willamette University on Saturday, Oct. 4 at Sparks Stadium for homecoming. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.