RUSTON -- Louisiana Tech University President Dr. Dan Reneau and Karl Malone announced Thursday the ATAC Fund Plan for facility improvements in the Thomas Assembly Center for the men’s and women’s basketball programs and the volleyball program.

“I am excited about being involved with my Louisiana Tech family,” Malone said. “My life has been a series of challenges, and I’m looking forward to this for everyone here in the Tech family. Everybody has to be involved to make this work. This is the time for the Tech family to step up and make this happen.”

Reneau also announced Malone’s official title in the athletic department as director of basketball promotion and assistant strength and conditioning coach.

“I am very excited about Karl Malone’s involvement at Louisiana Tech,” Tech president Dr. Dan Reneau said. “He’s a generous benefactor and certainly a member of our Tech family. I look forward to his involvement and leadership in Louisiana Tech athletics.”

The Malone family initiated the ATAC Fund Plan with a donation of $350,000 to benefit the Louisiana Tech athletic program.

“Karl Malone has been a generous benefactor to this university since his playing days on this campus,” Tech athletic director Jim Oakes said. “His gift today will certainly make a big difference for our basketball and volleyball programs.”

Tech head men’s basketball coach Kerry Rupp said he was pleased and excited with Reneau and Malone’s vision for the Thomas Assembly Center.

“To have a powerful program, it takes more than being at a special place,” Tech head basketball coach Kerry Rupp said. “You need special people to step up and make sacrifices and contributions to the athletic program. That’s what excites me most about this University; everyone wants to make this not just a special but a magical opportunity for myself and the Bulldog family.”

Anyone wishing to donate to the ATAC Fund should contact Adam McGuirt at the Marbury Alumni Association at (318) 255-7950. Checks should be made payable to Louisiana Tech Foundation/ATAC Fund/Men’s Basketball.