Seems like a good way to spend money…

The Boston Globe reports:

Salem State foundation paid Brady $170,000 for speech

For 40 days and nights since his platinum image was stained by football deflation allegations, Tom Brady has maintained his silence about the controversy, with one exception — a highly publicized appearance at Salem State University the night after he was implicated by the NFL’s Wells Report.

It turns out Brady had a good reason, at least financially, to speak last month at Salem State. The university disclosed Tuesday that its nonprofit Salem State University Foundation paid the Patriots quarterback $170,000 to participate in its annual speaker series.

University spokeswoman Karen Cady said Brady’s appearance was funded by proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships. She said no public funds supported his engagement.

Salem State’s foundation provides scholarships to students, helps recruit faculty from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, enhances internships and other student experiences, and contributes to building projects, according to its website.