Herb Yamanaka reflects on decades of support for Oregon athletics

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 24, 2026, 4:07 PM

Last updated Aug 24, 2026

Summary

Herb Yamanaka, 92, remains active at the University of Oregon, focusing on donor relations. A notable alumnus from Hawaii, he established a scholarship in 1995 to support Hawaiian athletes. Yamanaka's extensive philanthropic efforts have aided future NFL players like Max Unger and DeForest Buckner, showcasing a long-standing commitment to athletics and community. His life story includes overcoming adversity and addressing racism during his college years in the 1950s.

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By the Numbers
  • Herb Yamanaka turns 92 on August 13, 2026.
  • He has served as an associate athletic director for decades.
  • Established a scholarship for Hawaiian athletes in 1995.
  • Recipients include future NFL players and state champions.
  • Yamanaka's experiences include navigating college racism.
Latest Updates
  • 4:07 PMYahoo SportsCurtis Murayama: Yamanaka has been a gift for Isle athletes, a godsend for Oregon
What they're saying
"

I recently reconnected with an administrator I met while I was in college. And what transpired was a conversation with a man who is living a wonderful philanthropic life. Herb Yamanaka was an events manager at the University of Oregon back in the mid-1970s. He used to call me “Pineapple,” an inside joke between two people from Hawaii. We’d bump into each other at the UO athletic department ...

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