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Report: Tom Brady Donated Payment From Salem State Speech To Charity

BOSTON (CBS) – Officials at Salem State University confirmed earlier this week that Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was paid $170,000 for a May speaking engagement at the school.

According to one report, however, Brady didn't keep any of the payment.

The Boston Globe reported that Brady donated $50,000 of the speaking fee to Best Buddies and gave the rest to other charities.

Best Buddies chairman and founder Anthony Kennedy Shriver confirmed the donation to the Globe, saying the organization is grateful for Brady's "generous support over the years."

Tom Brady
Tom Brady speaks at Salem State University (WBZ-TV)

Brady's appearance was funded by the nonprofit Salem State University Foundation by way of corporate sponsors and ticket sales. The school said the event netted a profit of about $40,000.

About 4,000 people attended the event, which was the only time to date Brady has publicly acknowledged the report by Ted Wells. The Wells Report said it was "more probable than not" that Brady was at least "generally aware" of footballs being deflated before the AFC Championship Game.

Brady was suspended four games by the NFL for his alleged actions. He is appealing that decision and is scheduled to plead his case before commissioner Roger Goodell beginning Tuesday.

Tom Brady
Tom Brady and Nick Giovinadzo (WBZ-TV)

Best Buddies has a longstanding relationship with Brady. He hosts an annual football game at Harvard Stadium with celebrities and children alike that raises money for the group.

This year's event, which took place at the end of May, was well-attended. Some fans wore "Free Brady" shirts to the fundraiser.

The quarterback is being represented in his appeal by a high profile group that includes attorney and long-time NFL nemesis Jeffrey Kessler.

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