Delaware State Alumnus Norman Oliver Donates $200,000 to Alma Mater

October 18, 2024

Dover, Del. — Norman Oliver, a 1985 graduate of Delaware State University (DSU), has donated $200,000 to the university that helped shape his path as both a business leader and a community advocate. The contribution, presented on Oct. 5 during the university’s Homecoming Weekend, is the latest in a series of philanthropic efforts from the former Wilmington City Councilman and entrepreneur. Oliver’s gift, unrestricted in its use, comes at a time when DSU is expanding its programs and services to meet the needs of a growing student population.

For Oliver, the donation is a testament to the university’s profound impact on his life. “Without Delaware State College—now Delaware State University—I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Oliver said. A self-described “at-risk student” from Wilmington’s Southbridge neighborhood, he credits the institution for providing him with opportunities that other schools would not. During his time at DSU, Oliver held multiple leadership roles, including President of the Freshman Class, the Men’s Council, and the DSU Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. He capped his collegiate years by serving as President of the Student Government Association.

Since his graduation with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, Oliver has made significant contributions to his community. He owns Rock Solid Construction, a commercial and residential construction firm, and runs a nonprofit, Our Youth, Inc., which has built over 30 affordable housing units in the Greater Wilmington area. His company, NOR Enterprises, also provides essential school transportation services for homeless children. His enduring commitment to Wilmington includes the popular “Stormin’ Norman Basketball League” and an annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway.

Delaware State University President Tony Allen praised Oliver for his ongoing support. “Storm is my friend, but that is not why he gave such a historic contribution,” Allen said. “He epitomizes our fundamental philosophy, ‘enter to learn, go forth to serve.’ He knows who we are and what we are trying to become, and he is doing all he can to ensure we reach our goals.”

Oliver’s contribution arrives amid a wave of notable donations to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the country. In recent years, philanthropists and alumni have stepped up their giving to HBCUs, underscoring the critical role these institutions play in higher education. In 2020, MacKenzie Scott, the former wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, donated hundreds of millions of dollars to several HBCUs, including Howard University and Hampton University. Other high-profile alumni, like Robert F. Smith, who erased the student debt of Morehouse College’s graduating class of 2019, continue to make transformational gifts, providing a lifeline for schools that have historically been underfunded.

For DSU, Oliver’s contribution reflects a broader trend of alumni engagement, offering not only financial support but a reminder of the lasting legacy of HBCUs in developing leaders dedicated to service.