Over the weekend, I shared with you the exciting news that we had received the largest combination cash and planned gift from an individual in the university’s history. Now I’m pleased to share with you today that the gift comes from long-time benefactor and friend of the university, Stephan Sharf.
Mr. Sharf has been among the most generous donors Oakland University has had the good fortune to know, and his long legacy of gifts has touched just about every area of the university. Mr. Sharf’s generosity and love of Oakland University knows no bounds.
But Mr. Sharf has always been more than just a friend of the university. Over the years, he has contributed to the success of Oakland in a variety of meaningful ways, including serving as a member of the Board of Trustees, as former director of the OU Foundation, as a former member of the President’s Campaign Council and as a member of the SECS Advisory Board. He is also the recipient of an honorary doctorate degree of science from Oakland University.
Mr. Sharf’s gift amounts to $21 million and is dedicated to enhancing the academic experience Oakland University students receive. A $14 million planned portion of the gift will be directed to the School of Engineering and Computer Science, the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, and the OU Women’s Golf Team for priorities such as scholarships, research funds and endowed discretionary funds. The remaining $7 million in planned and cash gifts will be directed to campus operational and capital needs.
Mr. Sharf’s gift will have a positive impact on the lives of countless students and faculty in the years ahead. As I said in my previous message, Mr. Sharf’s gift not only represents tremendous generosity, but also is a fine testament to the important work all of us are doing to provide a high quality education for our students.
Steve Sharf’s abiding friendship and generosity – combined with his love for Oakland University students, faculty and staff – will leave a lasting impression on our university in perpetuity. We are grateful for Mr. Sharf’s kind beneficence.
Sincerely,
Gary
Long-time benefactor and friend of OU, Stephan Sharf, has given the largest combination cash and planned gift from an individual in the university’s history.
Created by Katherine Land - Deleted (land@oakland.edu) on Tuesday, January 31, 2012 Modified by Katherine Land - Deleted (land@oakland.edu) on Tuesday, January 31, 2012 Article Start Date: Tuesday, January 31, 2012
