Hometown Hero

As a longtime resident of Rochester Hills and the daughter of former local small business owners, Andrea Harral, M.A. ‘81, has always felt the importance of supporting her hometown.

“If the Chevy dealership was insured through my parents’ business, then everyone in my family drove Chevys. That’s how I was raised,” Harral explains. “My parents always stressed the importance of community. I am still very Rochester-oriented.”

It only makes sense that Harral’s generosity has been extended to Oakland University, which Harral attended and holds in high regard.

“OU fits a small town beautifully; it’s a contained facility that is doing big university things and that excites me,” Harral says, adding of her own experience: “At OU, I was given opportunities I never got at larger universities. I never felt like just a number. I was seen on a very personal level.”

Harral’s planned gift and permanent endowment in her name will support both the Student Emergency Fund and Student Affairs Fund.

Colette O'Connor, senior director of planned giving, reflects on Harral’s devotion to helping others, noting that 100% of Harral’s generous gift will support students.

The Student Emergency Relief Fund is for students who encounter extenuating circumstances that could keep them from staying in school. This fund provides financial support for emergency situations like temporary food insecurity, essential utilities or temporary housing. Harral’s planned gift also supports the Student Affairs Fund, a general fund set up to support the mission and vision of the Division of Student Affairs and Diversity.

Harral’s creation of a general student support fund is a testament to her understanding of the rapidly changing environment that students face and supports the university in meeting needs quickly. “All I’m asking is that if someone is in a pickle and it’s going to ruin their college career, I want someone to jump in and help with my gift,” she says.

Harral became personally aware of the hard work and struggles facing today’s students when meeting the friends of her nephew, a current computer science student.

“We have to keep reaching these kids,” Harral says. “I want to help as many people as I can.”

Michael Westfall, vice president of University Advancement, reflects on Harral’s commitment, “Andrea Harral’s generosity is a beacon of hope. Her commitment exemplifies the power of giving back. Andrea is not just a donor; she is a hometown hero, transforming lives and embodying the true spirit of community.”

Discover how a planned gift to Oakland University can significantly impact the lives of our students.