Portland State University today announced that Drs. Keren Brown Wilson, Ph.D. ’83, and Michael DeShane, MA ’71, PhD ’77, have made an important gift to the PSU Institute on Aging (IOA) to expand career pathways for students interested in supporting Oregon’s elders. The gift helped cap the university’s $300 million Campaign for PSU.
“By 2050, the percentage of people ages 65 or older will more than double,” said Dr. Paula Carder, director of the IOA. “We must focus with new urgency on expanding access to gerontological education so that PSU graduates can make a positive difference as our population ages. We are so grateful to Keren and Michael for a gift that will help make that possible.”
“It is fitting and gratifying that this is the couple whose philanthropic investment helped successfully conclude the Campaign for PSU,” said PSU President Stephen Percy. “They are alumni who have long served our city as business and civic leaders, and whose advocacy for Portland State and higher education is second to none. Keren and Michael’s gift supports the heart of PSU’s mission — students, faculty and public service.”
Institute on Aging supporters Dr. Keren Brown Wilson and Dr. Michael DeShane.The contribution will enable program and curriculum development, endow a scholarship in aging studies, and provide critical support for faculty as they mentor students and pursue important research interests. Additionally, the gift will create the Russell “Gus” DeShane Professorship in Aging Studies which will support the work of the Institute. The gift will also enhance scholarships for students transferring from Clackamas Community College to PSU. Nearly half of PSU’s undergraduate students transfer from community colleges.
Founded in 1969, PSU’s Institute on Aging is one of the longest-established interdisciplinary centers in Oregon, dedicated to improving understanding of aging and facilitating opportunities for elders, families and communities to thrive. Housed within Portland State’s College of Urban and Public Affairs, the Institute includes faculty and graduate research assistants in gerontology, sociology, urban studies, psychology and public health who conduct research, advise industry partners, shape public policy, and prepare students for leadership in fields related to aging.
“This is not just an investment in the IOA, it’s an investment in Oregon’s future,” said Keren Brown Wilson. “With this gift, we hope to widen the pathway to careers in aging and bring new ideas and perspectives to the field. We believe Portland State is the right institution to lead this work.”
Keren Brown Wilson and Michael DeShane are pioneers in the development of services for older adults and people with disabilities, and they have devoted their lives to helping those with limited means age with dignity. Their long-time support of Portland State as donors and volunteers reflects their passionate commitment to higher education. Dr. Brown Wilson founded the Jessie F. Richardson Foundation and AGE+, an Oregon public charity, and is Board Chair of the PSU Foundation Board of Directors. Dr. DeShane leads Concepts in Community Living, Inc.
The couple’s gift helped PSU cap its $300 million Campaign for PSU. The university’s first major fundraising initiative focused on four key areas: supporting students, empowering faculty, enhancing campus facilities and powering initiatives to address urban challenges and opportunities.
The campaign’s successful conclusion will be celebrated by the public and PSU community at the Simon Benson Awards, a free virtual celebration on October 14, 2021. Learn more.