Congresswoman Bynum Statement on Knight’s $1 Billion Donation to University of Oregon

September 23, 2026 Press Release Today, Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05) released a statement in response to Phil and Penny Knight’s announcement of a $1 billion donation to the University of Oregon to help start an engineering school. “This is exactly what investing in the next generation looks like – and I’m not just saying that because I’m an engineer,” said Rep. Bynum. “This generous and game-changing donation should be the standard for how we invest in getting our kids ready for the future and for how philanthropy can partner with local, state, and federal government to drive innovation. I’m fighting everyday in Congress to make that a reality. Go Ducks!” ###