The Iowa State turf campaign designed to raise $1.2 million for a natural grass field for Cyclone Stadium by next year got a jump-start from an anonymous donor and Des Moines contractor Dwayne McAninch.

The anonymous donor gave a staggering $500,000 in support of the new field, while McAninch donated $100,000.

“This half-million gift is an extraordinary contribution from a long-time Cyclone fan,” said ISU athletic director Gene Smith. “The donor, who wishes to remain anonymous, shares Iowa State’s commitment to building a stronger football program and understands the installing of a high-quality turf system is one of the steps we need to take.”

ISU head football coach Dan McCarney was on cloud nine after receiving the news of the donations.

“We’re absolutely thrilled about the announcement today of the fantastic contribution to our ‘Let it Grow’ campaign. It’s absolutely unbelievable,” McCarney said. “Were hoping it will continue. There’s no donation to small. We’re hoping that people will give, and give from the heart.”

McCarney said he knew the donor who wished to remain anonymous.

The new turf, along with construction of the Richard O. Jacobson Athletic Facility and renovation of the Ralph Olsen Building will cost $11.8 million. Most of the funding for the new facilities will come from private donations.

Cyclone Club members, football season holders and other Iowa Staters were recently mailed a brochure that invited them to participate in the natural grass turf campaign. That campaign has already raised $20,000.

“We’re grateful to this donor for providing the early momentum that will help us reach our goal in time to convert to a grass field for the next football season,” Smith said.