Meyer L. Prentis - 1886-1970

Meyer L. Prentis was one of the most important influences on philanthropy in metropolitan Detroit. The naming of the Meyer L. Prentis Comprehensive Cancer Center of Metropolitan Detroit and of the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute's primary research center stands as a tribute to his lifetime of good works and visions. 

Prentis came to America from his native Lithuania as a child. Stepping off the train from St. Louis for his first look at Detroit in 1911, he saw an iron and lumber town largely untouched by the automotive industry. 

He became the chief accountant and auditor for General Motors. In 1916 he was promoted to comptroller and, in 1919, became treasurer of the world's largest corporation, a position he held for 32 years.

During his lifetime, saw the city of Detroit and its industry change, flourish and extend its influence around the globe. He played a vital part in all of it. 

Mr. Prentis directed a number of General Motors subsidiaries in the United States and Canada, and served as a regent of the General Motors Institute for more than 40 years. 

He was a founder and the first secretary-treasurer of the United Foundation of Greater Detroit, now the United Way for Southeastern Michigan. As chairman of its most important Goals and Allocations Committee, his leadership, judgement and devotion enabled the United Foundation to become the nation's greatest federation in the health and welfare field. 

Prentis also served as president of the Citizens Research Council of Michigan for 25 years, helping to solve governmental problems in both Detroit and Michigan. 

He was an early leader in the Jewish Welfare Federation, and served as trustee of Temple Beth El of Detroit. 

The founding of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine at Yeshiva University in New York, and the creation of the Wayne State University School of Business Administration were both accomplished through his efforts. The Meyer and Anna Prentis Building now houses the School of Business Administration on Wayne State University's campus.

Mr. Prentis served civic groups in Detroit widely until his death on July 15, 1970, at the age of 84. He was survived by his wife, Anna, and four daughters: Mrs. Lawrence Lande, Mrs. Lester Morris, Mrs. Beverly Straus and Mrs. Marvin Frenkel; and nine grandchildren.

With his living legacy, Prentis reminds us all that one person, committed to bettering his or her community, can indeed make a difference. The Meyer L. Prentis Comprehensive Cancer Center of Metropolitan Detroit is named in honor of one such person, and the difference he made.