Member News

Birmingham, MI, February 11, 2025 —The Community House (TCH) announced today that Ora Hirch Pescovitz, M.D., president of Oakland University (OU) will be recognized as the Grand Honoree at its Grand Gala to be held the evening of Friday, April 11, 2025 at The Community House 380 S. Bates St. Birmingham. The criteria for choosing an honoree is one who is passionate and committed to the three foundational Pillars of Vibrancy on which The Community House stands: Education, Culture, Wellness and Philanthropy. “Few people actively demonstrate the passion and commitment to giving back in these three areas as much as president Pescovitz in every aspect of her work, personal life and community involvement,” exclaimed Brad Wolf, Board Chair and Acting president & CEO The Community House.

Pescovitz is a renowned pediatric endocrinologist and investigator who has published more than 190 papers and books. She is a sought-after speaker on a range of topics, including education, leadership, healthcare and women’s issues. She is an elected member of the National Academy of Medicine. As president of Oakland University she has increased student and academic success, scholarship and community engagement and has focused major efforts on diversity, equity, inclusion and sustainability. Under her leadership, the campus has expanded, the entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropy efforts have increased, and the school’s reputation has been enhanced, as manifested by numerous regional and national awards.

“I am very appreciative to be recognized as the Grand Honoree at TCH’s Grand Gala based on my passions for education, culture, wellness and philanthropy. I am excited to represent Oakland University and its excellence to the Birmingham, Bloomfield, and surrounding communities”, stated Pescovitz. “Most importantly, OU and I are proud to support TCH and its dedication to Outreach Programs that help others less fortunate,” she added. 

While President Pescovitz continues efforts to improve OU educational on-campus experiences, equally impressive is her focus to provide educational opportunities for students and community members outside OU – including supporting professional development lectures at TCH; plans to expand art education and exposure for the community; and her personal philanthropic contributions to many local organizations.

Among others, Dr. Pescovitz currently serves on the Boards of Priority Health, the Detroit Economic Club, the Horizon League where she is Chair of the Board and a member of the NCAA Division I Board of Directors. She is the immediate past chair of the Michigan Association of State Universities, Co-Chair of the Detroit Drives Degrees Leadership Council, and is Chair-Elect of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.

“We are delighted that president Pescovitz has accepted this honor, and we look forward to having the communities that surround The Community House learn more about her tremendous give back to so many, as well as Oakland University’s growing and positive impact in our area,” said Wolf. “We are very grateful for Oakland University’s support of TCH, and look forward to a long-lasting partnership,” he added.

Pescovitz earned her medical degree from Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine where she was awarded Distinguished Alumni Awards from both the Feinberg School of Medicine and Northwestern University. During her extensive 21-year career at Indiana University, she served as Executive Associate Dean for Research Affairs at the School of Medicine, President and CEO of Riley Hospital for Children. From 2009-2014, she was the University of Michigan’s Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs and Health System CEO. In this role, she led a system that included three hospitals, more than 120 health centers and clinics, and the University of Michigan Medical School. The public is invited to join this celebration at The Community House, 380 S. Bates Street, Birmingham. Tickets to the event are $300 per person or a table for eight at $2,000. To purchase tickets or to inquire about additional sponsorship opportunities, contact Kathie Ninneman at 248.644.5832 or visit www.communityhousehelps.org.