EUGENE, Ore. -- (Sept. 17, 2009) - On Wednesday, Sept. 16, the University of Oregon learned about the death of its former president, Myles Brand.

Current UO President Richard Lariviere said, "It is with tremendous sorrow that the University of Oregon community received news of the death of Myles Brand, who served as president of the university from 1989 to 1994. I extend my deepest condolences to President Brand's family, especially his wife, Margaret, and son, Josh." See more comments here.

From 1989 to 1994, Brand led the university through one of the most difficult financial times when programs and jobs were cut. As a result of the dramatic funding impacts of Ballot Measure 5, which was passed by voters, the UO with Brand as its leader embarked on a new approach to funding and encouraged the recruitment of out-of-state students. He initiated strategic planning processes to include many departments, schools and colleges on campus, and placed increased emphasis on undergraduate education, graduate student support and externally funded research.

He also started the UO's Native American Initiative, which represents the university's commitment to the study and survival of Native American culture, languages and history.

As part of his effort to seek new sources of funding, he started the groundwork for the "Oregon Campaign," which raised $255.3 million in private donations, and set a new record for fundraising campaigns.

Faculty and administrative colleagues said that he was known for his integrity and ability to make tough decisions that faced the university.

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