$10 million gift to university from Donna and Walt Young

The Oakland University Board of Trustees today approved the renaming of the university’s Honors College as The Donna and Walt Young Honors College, in recognition of a transformational $10 million gift from the longtime university benefactors. The announcement marks a historic milestone — the first time in Oakland University’s history that an academic unit has been named.

The Youngs’ extraordinary gift reflects their deep confidence in the growth, excellence, and future trajectory of the Honors College. It also underscores their decades-long commitment to supporting Oakland University students through philanthropy, mentorship, and service.

Walt Young joined the Oakland University Foundation Board in 1997, the same year he and his wife, Donna, made their first gift to the university. Since then, their sustained generosity has profoundly enriched the educational experience of OU students. Among their many contributions, the Donna and Walt Young Study Abroad Endowed Scholarship Fund has enabled Honors College students to expand their academic and cultural perspectives through global study opportunities.

“Donna and I have been involved with Oakland University for the last three decades, during which we have seen tremendous growth — not only in enrollment but in character and mission,” said Mr. Young. “The Honors College cultivates problem-solving, empathy, and leadership skills, and we have taken great pride in seeing the impact of our study abroad endowment on students’ lives.”

In addition to their philanthropic leadership, the Youngs have been dedicated participants in numerous university initiatives, including capital campaigns and the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Keeper of the Dream Scholarship Celebration, which promotes diversity and inclusion on campus.

“Donna and Walt Young represent the very best of Oakland University’s community of supporters,” said Ora Hirsch Pescovitz, M.D., President of Oakland University. “Their generosity and engagement have strengthened our academic mission and inspired our students to lead with purpose. It is an honor to steward their legacy through The Donna and Walt Young Honors College — a legacy defined by opportunity, global awareness, and service to others.”

Nearly 50 years after welcoming its inaugural class, the Honors College continues to expand as a center of academic excellence and innovation, rooted in values of intellectual curiosity, community engagement, and mentorship. This fall, the college welcomed its largest-ever incoming class of 664 students, with an average GPA approaching 4.0 — a testament to its growing reputation and impact.

“The generosity of Donna and Walt Young brings us an incredible opportunity,” said Graeme Harper, Dean of The Honors College. “Their gift is an investment in student achievement and an inspiration to the entire OU community. They have not only given a name but also a vision that will transform lives for generations.”

Reflecting on this historic moment, Mr. Young added, “We are pleased to support the continued development of the Honors College and its mission to prepare future leaders who will strengthen Michigan and our nation.”