ROCHESTER, Mich. – Oakland Athletics has announced that the recipient of this year's George Wibby Award, as a part of the 2026 Hollie L. Lepley Hall of Honor Class, is Associate Director of Research and Prospect Management for University Advancement, Anne Williams.
"Anne is a well-deserved recipient of the George Wibby Award. When I arrived at Oakland in 2018, Anne's contributions and service to OU athletics were already significant and well-established, and they have only grown since my arrival." said Athletics Director Steve Waterfield. "As a past President of the Golden Grizzlies Champions Club advisory board, a frequent attendee at OU athletics events, and a current University Advancement staff member, Anne's contributions and hard work have made OU athletics better and elevated the OU student-athlete experience."
"Receiving the Oakland University Wibby Award fills me with so much pride and excitement. My love for Oakland University runs deep, and I'm truly grateful to be part of a community that inspires, supports, and celebrates one another," said Williams. "I am incredibly honored and deeply excited to receive the Oakland University Wibby Award. Oakland has shaped me in countless meaningful ways, and I'm grateful every day for the community, spirit, and opportunities it continues to provide."
Williams has been known for her consistent dedication to advancing Oakland University's values, her collaborative leadership style, and her enthusiasm for strengthening the campus community. Her work has made a measurable difference in supporting Oakland students, faculty, staff, and partners.
A three-time Oakland graduate with a post-masters certificate in Local Government Management, Williams has been in her current position in the Office of University Advancement since 2014. She has served on various boards and committees, including the Oakland University Alumni Association, Forgotten Harvest, City of Rochester Hills Citizens Pathway Review Committee, and was a founding member of the advisory board of directors for the OU Champions Club and served as second board chair.
Bleeding the Black and Gold, Williams is most known for her "Grizzly Gold" Ford Escape to match her Golden Grizzly pride for Oakland University, and has been a longtime season-ticket holder for OU Basketball. Her husband, Joseph, and four children have all attended or are alumni of Oakland.
Williams will be honored as part of the Hollie L. Lepley Hall of Honor ceremony on Jan. 31, 2026 at the Oakland Center Ballroom. To learn more about the ceremony and to register to attend, click HERE.
About the Award
George Wibby's long history with Oakland University began in the 1960s as an official for the swimming and diving program. Wibby was also a familiar face at basketball games and golf outings. After retiring from the American Red Cross, Wibby coached golf and worked as a golf ranger at the Katke-Cousins Golf Course. Wibby established the Jewel Wibby Scholarship Fund in honor of his wife after her death.
To recognize Wibby's dedication and service to Oakland, the George Wibby Award was established in 1987. This award is given to an Oakland University employee who exemplifies spirit and devotion to Oakland, along with compassion and care for those around them.
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