The College for Creative Studies (CCS) in Detroit has announced a $2 million gift from Waltraud E. Prechter in honor of her late husband, Heinz C. Prechter.

The gift will establish endowed funds in support of recruitment and retention scholarships and an award for an automotive design student. According to CCS, 98 percent of its students receive financial assistance.

Heinz Prechter, a former CCS trustee and a prominent figure in the Detroit community, founded the American Sunroof Corporation in the 1960s. Waltraud Prechter is a CCS trustee and advocate for mental health and the arts.

“Heinz had a unique passion for customizing cars and a love for automotive design. It is my honor to support CCS students with this gift, which exemplifies Heinz’s belief in education and access to opportunities,” said Waltraud Prechter. “I think he would be thrilled to know that recipients will pursue studies in art and design, especially in areas close to his heart. His motto always emphasized the fact that ‘We are here to make a difference in the world.’ I am grateful to see his legacy live on.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/gorodenkoff)