Former Drexel football student-athlete Vince Vidas and his wife Judy have donated $1 million to the Dragons rowing program, the lead gift in the $3 million “Give Me Ten” campaign designed to revitalize the sport at the school.

Drexel President Constantine Papadakis said the rowing program needs a “great effort to reach the level of prominence it deserves.”

“With the leadership and generosity exhibited by Mr. and Mrs. Vidas, I am convinced that our university community will follow suit and help this campaign toward a successful completion,” he said.

The gift will help the Dragons compete at the NCAA and other national championships as well as in international competition, coach Paul Savell said.

As longtime supporters of the Dragons, the Vidas were also involved in the campaign to revitalize Drexel’s athletics fields, which are named for the family. Vince Vidas also played basketball and lacrosse for Drexel.