ROCHESTER, Mich. – Last week, Oakland University Athletics dedicated a bench outside of the Athletics Center surrounding the bear statue in memory of the late Ken McCarter, a mentor, fan and friend of the Golden Grizzlies. 
 
McCarter and his wife Kathy were long-time season ticket holders for men's basketball as well as donors to various initiatives with the school of business administration and the department of athletics. McCarter passed away in May, 2019 after a seven-year battle with cancer. 

"It obviously means a lot to us, we can't thank Oakland University enough for this dedication to Ken," Larry McCarter, Ken's brother, said. "Ken really enjoyed what he did with all the faculty and students here at Oakland, it was a special place for him."  
 
After a successful 38-year career in the automotive industry, McCarter retired from Chrysler Corporation in 2008. He went on to launch his own management consulting company and was also highly involved at Oakland University in various unique roles. 
 
McCarter initially served as an executive-in-residence for the school of business administration where he focused on mentoring students and faculty.  He then began teaching courses in human resources, organization behavior, global business, and labor-management relations as an adjunct faculty member.
 
In 2012, McCarter began working closely with men's basketball staff and student-athletes as a mentor.  During this time, he helped many student-athletes prepare for exams, formulate resumes, secure internships, interviews and employment, and generally develop and improve their life skills.  With McCarter's support, in conjunction with the student-athlete services staff, the men's basketball team achieved its highest-ever team GPA in the fall of 2016. That same year, the department of athletics recognized Ken for his efforts with their community service award, given to a member of the community who has aided in the advancement of the Oakland University Department of Athletics, while serving as an advocate for the well-being of student-athletes.
 
In 2018, McCarter was the recipient of the Spirit Award as part of Oakland University's annual Homecoming and Reunion Weekend at the annual Alumni Awards Banquet.