ROCHESTER, Mich. -- Oakland will host the Elaine Leigh Track and Field Invite on April 24 to commemorate the incredible gift from John Leigh to Oakland Athletics.

This donation supports the Champions Club Fund and established the Elaine Leigh Cross Country Program endowment which will provide programmatic support for the Men's and Women's Cross Country program in perpetuity. In recognition of John's gift to Oakland Athletics, the Track and Field Complex will be renamed the Elaine Leigh Track and Field Complex.

Long-time supporters of Oakland University and OU Athletics, John and his late wife Elaine have continually recognized the success of student-athletes on and off the field, and the efforts taken to encourage and support them. 

"Elaine is known to her children and her grandchildren as the "Memory Maker".  Small events, family outings, etc. were memorable because of Grandma's participation. No formal planning, just love, and participation.  In reflection many of our family memories involved OU athletics Whether that meant basketball games, track meets, cross country meets, or other events.  They are memories because Elaine, I, and members of my family actively participated in the event. The participation made the memory" Leigh said. 

"My hope is that when I and my grandchildren pass the Track Facility on their way to the Orena or to class they will see Grandma's name and it will trigger a memory and appreciation of the "Memory Maker"."

The student-athletes will now make their own memories at the Elaine Track and Field Complex as a result of the contribution John made. "The Oakland University Athletics Department family and I extend our appreciation to John for his significant contribution.  During a most challenging year, his exceptional generosity better positions all current and future Oakland University student-athletes for success in competition, in the classroom, and in life.  His contribution will positively impact thousands of Golden Grizzlies student-athletes, elevating the athletics department and University," Athletic Director, Steve Waterfield said. 

"During my conversations with John, I have appreciated learning about Elaine and her remarkable qualities, like her love of family and selflessness.  Naming the track and field complex in Elaine's memory is a fitting tribute that honors her life at a venue where Oakland University student-athletes for years to come will create fond memories of their athletics accomplishments and time at Oakland."