The Center for Global Health Equity (CGHE) is excited to announce a generous donation of $10 million from Leslie Yamada and her family, further solidifying the University of Michigan’s commitment to advancing global health equity. This substantial contribution follows an initial gift of $10 million made by Leslie and her late husband, Tadataka “Tachi” Yamada, to establish the Center. With this newest commitment, the Yamada family has now pledged $20 million to the Center to advance global health equity.

Through their gift, the Yamada family brings resources and attention to critical efforts to advance global health equity. Their profound dedication to the Center’s mission and longstanding relationship with the university have been a guiding light since the Center’s launch in 2020. Their initial gift created the Center, provided substantive funding for impactful global health equity research, and supported the work of various partnerships singularly focused on improving the health and well-being of communities in low- and middle-income countries. Their vision of a world where everyone has sustainable opportunities to realize optimal mental and physical health sits at the heart of the Center and all that we do. This new donation contributes significantly to the Center’s long-term financial stability, allowing us to build a robust foundation for future programming.

“We are profoundly grateful for the Yamada family’s continued commitment to our mission,” said Joseph C. Kolars, MD, executive director of CGHE. “This latest donation is not only a reinforcement of their belief in our work, but also a crucial step in preserving and honoring Tachi’s legacy as a visionary in this field. Their continued support and dedication are vital in our pursuit of a world where equitable access to health care is not an aspiration but a reality,” said Kolars.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to Leslie and her family for their unwavering commitment to advancing global health equity. Their legacy is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of collective action in addressing some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.”