William F. Pickard's career crossed business and education. Born in LaGrange, Georgia, in 1941, he moved with his family to Flint, Michigan, during the 1950s. He studied at Mott Community College, Western Michigan University, the University of Michigan and Ohio State University, earning degrees that culminated in a doctorate in 1971. His family's memorial describes him as a pioneer among Black franchise owners.
Pickard's early professional experience included work in education and community organizations. A biographical directory records his service as education director at the Cleveland Urban League before his business career expanded.
In 1971, he entered McDonald's franchising. His business interests later included Regal Plastics and Global Automotive Alliance, a stake in MGM Grand Detroit and co-ownership of Real Times Media: restaurants, manufacturing, entertainment and newspapers under one businessman's watch. In the family memorial, Sylvester Hester recalled beginning as a Regal Plastics intern in 1986 and receiving Pickard's support as he advanced professionally.
University service offered another outlet for that experience. Grand Valley State University records Pickard's trusteeship from 1977 to 1989. His later contributions there include a business scholarship established in 2016 and education funds established in 2022, which the university describes as support for underrepresented business students and pathways involving historically Black and Hispanic-serving institutions.
At Western Michigan, a trusteeship that began in 2016 ended with his resignation in September 2018. A contemporary university report records more than $3.5 million in gifts and commitments, including support for residence halls and future educators. The residence-hall names also honor Dennis Archer and Ron Hall, friendships formed around the university.
Pickard died on June 12, 2024. Grand Valley and Western Michigan both remembered him in their tributes as a trustee and donor whose giving centered on opening business education to more students.
