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2008 Year in Review 

Produced by University Communications and Marketing – January 2009

2008 Year In Review - News at OU: Year In Review - Oakland University 

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2008 Year In Review 








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Campaign for OU | Growth of Campus | Enhancing Technology | Strong Undergraduate Education | Quality Graduate Programs | 

Quality Students | Athletics | Student Organizations | Alumni | Inspired Faculty and Staff | Diversity | Community | Partnerships 

Remarkably dedicated faculty, staff, students and 

others who earnestly support Oakland University helped 

bring about a wealth of good news in 2008. The diverse 

and impressive list of accomplishments below highlights 

Oakland’s evolution as an institution of outstanding 

educational opportunity, meaningful community 

involvement and state and national distinction. 

Building on the Oakland Medical Initiative’s vision to 

establish the county as a premiere destination for health 

care services and education, for example, Oakland 

University was awarded $40 million in state funding to 

support construction of a 157,300-square-foot Human 

Health Building. Its state-of-the-art facilities will 

dramatically enhance the region’s medical education 

and research opportunities. Meanwhile, the university 

welcomed the nationally and internationally acclaimed 

Dr. Robert Folberg to serve as founding dean of the 

Oakland University William Beaumont School of 

Medicine. 

In the realm of new programs, Oakland became the 

only university in the world to offer International 

Baccalaureate Level 1 program education for teachers 

spanning the entire K–12 curriculum. It was also 

announced that the Thomas M. Cooley Law School- 

Auburn Hills campus became the exclusive educational law school of Oakland University, and that OU graduates who meet 

Cooley’s admission requirements will receive priority status in the school’s enrollment process. 

In 2008, Oakland reinforced an already intense focus on academic research, welcoming experts from across the nation and the 

world to the First Midwest Conference on Stem Cell Biology and Therapy. Additionally, the university’s chapter of the Sigma Xi 

national research society received a Certificate of Excellence for demonstrating exceptional involvement and vitality in the research 

community. 

Looking to expand access to its programs, Oakland established an innovative satellite campus, as well as significant outreach and 

community engagement efforts in Macomb County. The new campus will offer programs in health care, education and human 

resources, technology and international business, engineering and communications arts. Also in Macomb, Oakland University 

partnered with the county’s Planning and Economic Development Department and the City of Sterling Heights to launch the 

Macomb-Oakland University Incubator. Part of a new SmartZone, the business incubator will eventually create 600 jobs and 

stimulate growth in the defense and advanced manufacturing sector. 

To broaden the university's goal of establishing valuable community partnerships, OU hosted both the start and finish lines of the 

inaugural Brooksie Way Half Marathon, an event designed to encourage healthy lifestyles in Oakland County. Officials also 

announced that the Royal Park Hotel in Rochester will serve as Oakland’s official conference center and preferred site for guest 

lodging, which will stimulate local commerce in the coming years. 

The generosity of its many supporters allowed Oakland University to reach a remarkable $100 million in charitable contributions. The 

institution is now well ahead of schedule in terms of attaining the $110 million goal outlined in “Innovation and Opportunity – The 

Campaign for OU.” 

These are just a few examples of the many exciting and noteworthy events of 2008, all of which point to a growing institution that 

continues to achieve excellence and distinction in its many endeavors. The scores of news summaries below help to tell 

this ongoing story. 

Campaign for OU 

Future Students Current Students Alumni Visitors & Friends Faculty & Staff 

Lois Shaevsky was awarded the George W. Romney Award for Lifetime Achievement in Volunteerism


during the 16th Annual National Philanthropy Day gala, hosted by the Greater Detroit Chapter of the 

Association of Fundraising Professionals. Shaevsky has volunteered with many high-profile 

organizations in Metro Detroit, including Oakland University, where she serves on the advisory board of 

the College of Arts and Sciences, the Judaic Studies steering committee and previously served on the 

board for the Oakland University Art Gallery. 

Full Story... 

Overall participation among employees and retirees increased seven percent in the 2007-2008 All- 

University Fund Drive. This year, 551 individuals made gifts to Oakland University, the Black United 

Fund and the United Way. The AUFD campaign also achieved 92% of the $240,300 goal, raising 

$220,468. 

Full Story... 

When Bernie and Nina Kent decided to make an endowed gift to Oakland University, they wanted their donation to make a 

difference in a new way. The Kents have established the Bernard and Nina Kent Judaic Studies Endowed Israel Travel Fund. Their 

gift will support enrichment travel for students in the program, including participation in archeological digs, internships and other 

travel abroad opportunities. 

Full Story... 

Dennis, SEHS '82, and Carlotta Pawley believe in giving back to the organizations and institutions that have supported their 

success. A graduate of the School of Education and Human Services (SEHS), Dennis Pawley credits Oakland University as being a 

significant factor in his lifetime of personal and career achievement. With the Pawley Alumni Leadership Challenge, he and Carlotta 

called on fellow alumni to step up to the plate. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's School of Nursing received a Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Award from the U.S. 

Department of Health and Human Services in the amount of $330,000 for the implementation of a Center for Pre-Symptom Health 

Care and Societal Research. 

Full Story... 

Three professors with expertise in cyber security and cyber crime were awarded a $115,000 grant from the National Science 

Foundation in its Course, Curriculum, and Laboratory Improvement (CCLI) program. 

Full Story... 

Meadow Brook Hall was awarded a $500,000 gift in honor of former General Motors CEO Roger B. Smith, who was well-known for 

community involvement and philanthropy throughout Michigan. 

Full Story... 

Financial Aid Coordinator Tina Cardamone was among many contributors to the All-University Fund Drive, supporting the 

scholarship fund for the new Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University was presented with the second of four installments tied to a $100,000 student loan grant from the Charles E. 

Schell Foundation to help support undergraduate student education. 

Full Story... 

David Doane, an OU professor of quantitative methods who has spent the last 40 years teaching statistics and forecasting, also 

continued a tradition of donating to the All-University Fund Drive, which he began in 1976, the year he was awarded tenure. 

Full Story... 

In a tremendous display of support for the mission of Oakland University's School of Business Administration, Hugh Elliott, a 

longtime OU supporter, and Craig Stinson (SBA '84) joined in giving the SBA $500,000 through a challenge match. 

Full Story... 

The 2008 All-University Fund Drive got off to great start, with 248 employees and retirees donating $92,791 toward a goal of 

$230,000 in combined contributions. 

Full Story... 

(return to top) 

Growth of Campus 

Oakland University President Gary Russi provided the campus community with an update on the state of affairs at OU. He said 

despite challenges, Oakland University is still thriving. Russi credited OU faculty and staff and planning efforts for the university's 

success and challenged them to continue to make a difference in the future. Through hundreds of meetings, the university has 

developed the 2020 goals, examined core values, reaffirmed the mission statement and created the university's passion statement, 

"Making a difference in people's lives by creating opportunities for them to succeed." 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's partnership with Macomb Community College, called Macomb 2 Oakland or M2O for short, saw a 43.2 percent 

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increase in enrollment . In January, at the start of the program's fourth semester, 252 students enrolled for M2O classes, compared 

with the 176 students who enrolled for the fall 2007 term. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's Board of Trustees approved three new degree programs for fall 2008. Two of the new programs are in the 

College of Arts and Sciences, which offer a bachelor of arts and minor in writing and rhetoric, and also a bachelor of arts in 

Japanese. The third is a Ph.D. in electrical and computer engineering in the School of Engineering and Computer Science. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University began offering an online certificate program in Animal Assisted Therapy in the fall. The non-credit program 

provides an academic approach to human-animal bonding and the healing potential of using animal assisted therapy with special 

populations. Consisting of five eight-week courses, this program helps professionals incorporate animal assisted therapy into their 

fields or provide information for those who wish to combine their love of animals with helping people. 

Full Story... 

The School of Nursing and University Housing developed a living learning community for first-year students who have declared 

nursing as their intended major. Students share a floor in East Vandenberg Hall, take classes together, participate in events and 

activities as a group and prepare to become nurses. 

Full Story... 

Campus tours set out from the Office of Undergraduate Admissions to guide prospective students and their families through their 

first experience of Oakland University. Leading the way for the excited visitors are OU's admissions ambassadors, student leaders 

who provide facts and knowledge about the university and what it has to offer. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's Board of Trustees approved the appointment of Robert Folberg, M.D., as the founding dean 

of the allopathic medical school Oakland will open with Beaumont Hospitals in 2010 with a charter class of 50 

students. Oakland and Beaumont also announced the official name of the school - Oakland University William 

Beaumont School of Medicine (OUWBSM)." 

Full Story... 

Oakland University unveiled a new writing and rhetoric Department in the College of Arts and Sciences, naming 

OU Associate Professor Marshall Kitchens as chair. The new department consists of seven tenure-track 

professors, four full-time special instructors and 30 special lecturers, and is home to a new degree program in 

writing, offering a major and a minor. 

Full Story... 

In an effort to provide a socially responsible model of institutional values, Oakland University began offering staff members the 

option of a compressed work week. Employees who elected to take advantage of the program, offered as a pilot for the summer 

months, worked four 10-hour days per week. 

Full Story... 

Construction crews worked on numerous projects to enhance the quality of Oakland's nearly 1,500-acre campus. The bulk of the 

work began in May and demanded the expertise of more than 10 contractors. It represented another significant investment in the 

long-term growth of the university, according to Terry Stollsteimer, associate vice president of facilities management at OU. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University officials announced a major expansion of the university's presence in Macomb County, which will include an 

innovative satellite campus, and significant outreach and community engagement efforts. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University learned it will receive state funding for a new Human Health Building, thanks to a capital outlay bill passed by the 

Michigan legislature and signed into law by Governor Jennifer Granholm. The measure, part of an initiative to address funding 

projects for state university and community college campuses, will provide $40 million of the $61 million total cost of the building. 

Full Story... 


Enhancing Technology 

The Oakland University Police Department, in conjunction with university administrators, maintains as its utmost mission the 

protection of the campus community's safety. As such, all students, faculty, staff and other university community members were 

encouraged to explore the new Oakland University Emergency Preparedness website to familiarize themselves with ways to avert 

and react to potential crisis situations on campus. 

Full Story... 

For graduates whose families were unable to attend the spring commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 3, a live broadcast was 

available for each of the ceremonies. 

Full Story... 

For incoming freshmen and transfer students, OU introduced The Grizzly Den, an online 

community for future Golden Grizzlies. 

Full Story... 



In early April, Oakland University student e-mail accounts were successfully transitioned to 

Webmail Powered by Google. 

Full Story... 

Following a successful student transition to Webmail Powered by Google, University Technology Services (UTS) migrated all faculty 

and staff e-mail accounts to the new e-mail system in mid-August. The move was designed to transition faculty and staff accounts 

before the existing system slowed down. 

Full Story... 

University Technology Services announced the launch of OakShare, an online, centralized storage option available to OU students, 

faculty, and staff with a NetID. The new storage application allows users to store, share, and access files from any computer with an 

Internet connection. 

Full Story... 

In order to increase data accuracy and streamline the admissions process for students, Oakland University's Office of 

Undergraduate Admissions moved its application completely online. Paper applications are now accepted only in special 

circumstances. 

Full Story... 

University Communications and Marketing launched a new OU home page design in August. The new page highlights OU's key 

branding/positioning messages, incorporates video and other new technology, places an emphasis on student recruitment and 

provides a more visually appealing and inviting layout. The redesign also includes updated sub site designs that complement the 

new home page. 

Full Story... 

Following the Oakland University Police Department's (OUPD) launch of a text message alert system, its emergency dispatch center 

was upgraded to receive text messages and became one of few police departments nationwide with this capability. In addition, a 

U.S. Department of Education grant of $423,999 was earned by the OUPD for campus violence prevention initiatives. 

Full Story... 

During the academic year, Monica Frechen lives on campus, but during the summer, she would have had to commute an hour and 

40 minutes from her home north of Lansing to Oakland University for classes. This summer, thanks to online classes, the 

Occupational Safety and Health graduate student got ahead in her studies without spending any money on gas. 

Full Story... 

Each year, Oakland University's highest academic achievers are recognized on the dean's list. The 2007-08 dean's list, which is 

posted annually following the winter semester for the previous academic year, was made available online. 

Full Story... 

The Advising Resource Center (ARC) introduced e-portfolio, an interactive Web resource geared toward helping OU students 

discover and navigate the world of college majors and career avenues. 

Full Story... 

Students who need help mastering the latest technology found it at the Student Technology Center (STC). Since opening its doors 

in Aug. 2005, the STC has helped thousands of OU students develop the knowledge and skills to tackle technological challenges, 

big and small. Services are tailored to all skill levels, from ignoramus to extraordinaire, and can help students with a diverse range 

of tasks. 

Full Story... 

Exciting upgrades planned for Kresge, E-LIS included new furniture, the latest in technological amenities and added work space. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University staff and students garnered national recognition from a computing peer group after putting creativity and 

technical know-how to commendable use in promoting the technology mentoring services and cutting-edge technology available at 

the university's Student Technology Center (STC). 

Full Story... 

E-Learning and Instructional Support (e-LIS) developed an online system for students to develop online portfolios. Students can 

now load resume information, cover letters, samples of their work and reference material into ePortfolio for prospective employers to 

view. The Student Technology Center also offers training on the system for students who need help getting started. 

Full Story... 


Strong Undergraduate Education 

In preparation for an April reaccreditation visit from consultant evaluators with the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central 

Association, Oakland University undertook a one-year self-study that involved gathering evidence from across the institution to 

address how OU is meeting NCA criteria and identify opportunities for improvement. 

Full Story... 



The Oakland University Board of Trustees approved a plan that would invest the $4.8 million state appropriation that was originally 

withheld by the state last year directly into student initiatives. 

Full Story... 

In 1995, Andrea Kozak, CAS '96, participated in her first Meeting of Minds. As an OU 

student, Kozak worked with a professor in the psychology department on research and used 

the research to develop a poster presentation for the undergraduate research conference. 

Now an assistant professor of psychology at OU, Kozak encouraged her students to gain the 

experience Meeting of Minds offers. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's general studies degree program was renamed the Bachelor of 

Integrative Studies. The name change provides a better representation of the goals of the 

program, which allows students to design personalized study programs using a crossdisciplinary 

approach. 

Full Story... 

After its first year, Oakland University's School of Business Administration's Scholars Program added two new programs geared 

toward expanding the level of student leadership. The programs offer high-achieving students the opportunity to take on different 

challenges in the SBA. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's women's studies program changed its name to Women and Gender Studies, and as it matured, the range of 

topics in the program expanded to encompass not only issues related to women, but to men and other genders as well. 

Full Story... 

A group of Oakland University students uncovered Oakland University's past - literally. A dozen students 

who participated in Professor Richard Stamps' class got hands-on experience in anthropology and 

archeology while digging, analyzing and researching specific areas of campus to learn more about the 

university's history. The students excavated areas at the Austin farm, a location that last year's class 

started exploring; the area near Walton and Squirrel roads, where there was believed to be an old 

schoolhouse; and the Meadow Brook Greenhouse and icehouse located near John Dodge House. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University students having trouble choosing a major or finding a career path got a new resource 

to help make such decisions. The Advising Resource Center helped through assessments, career 

counseling and workshops. Students can learn about themselves and use that insight to explore potential 

majors and careers. The ARC is dedicated to helping students make informed decisions by answering 

questions and assisting students in taking steps to explore what is available. 

Full Story... 

In order to improve services to students, Oakland University announced that it will merge spring and summer terms into one 

extended summer semester. The new format will help students get ahead in their studies by offering greater flexibility in scheduling 

and increased opportunities to complete required courses. While most courses will fall into the two seven-week sessions previously 

offered during the spring and summer terms, a number of two-, four-, 10-, and 14-week courses will also be available. 

Full Story... 

David Sherman, a senior at Birmingham Groves High School, had exhausted the 

mathematics classes he can take at the secondary education level. For the past three years, 

however, Sherman participated in the Oakland University Summer Mathematics Institute, 

which allows students to take college-level mathematics courses and earn college credit - for 

free. 

Full Story... 

The College of Arts and Sciences continued Celebrating the Liberal Arts with 2008-09 theme 

Cities. The Celebrating the Liberal Arts themes are designed to demonstrate how a liberal 

arts education results from the interactive work of scholars from many disciplines. 

Full Story... 

Albert Goldbarth, one of America's most critically acclaimed poets, presented his work at the 21st Annual Maurice Brown Poetry 

reading in October. Selections from Goldbarth's poetry were previewed at a reading given by English department faculty and 

students. 

Full Story... 

High school students from Pontiac, Oak Park and Detroit spent the first part of their summer 

vacation earning money for college. They weren't working at retail locations or restaurants; 

they earned the money while in the classroom. Through the School of Business 

Administrations Entrepreneurship Institute camp, the students not only learned about 

business, they put their knowledge to the test in hands-on activities. Each student who 

completed the camp was awarded a $500 scholarship and has the possibility of earning 

more money if they choose to attend Oakland University's School of Business when they 

graduate from high school. 

Full Story... 



OU student Kristin Patterson aspired to run a small business after graduation. Patterson 

didn't want to go into the corporate world, but she wanted to know how to get her small 

business off the ground and have an idea of how to run it. Through the School of Business's 

entrepreneurship minor, non-business students can gain experience in building a business. 

Full Story... 

Mike Murphy, CAS '01, and Adam Kochenderfer, CAS '02, both attended Oakland University and went on to law school at the 

University of Michigan, but they did it in very different ways. Both, Murphy and Kochenderfer believe their Oakland University 

education prepared them not only for law school but also for being attorneys. 

Full Story... 

The School of Business Administration launched the Scholars program in fall 2007 for freshmen, juniors, seniors and those who 

wanted to participate in research. In fall 2008, the SBA expanded the program to include sophomore scholars, and theme scholars 

in social and public policy. The program offers high achieving students the opportunity to take on different challenges in the SBA. 

Each class has different tasks to complete throughout the year, and they are awarded with accelerated major standing or 

scholarships. 

Full Story... 

Humanitarian activist Curt Rhodes, founder and president of Questscope for Social Development in the Middle East, will spoke at 

Oakland University in September. Rhodes discussed his initiatives to educate Iraqi children refugees in Jordan, and provide an 

update on the plight of displaced Iraqis in Jordan and Syria. 

Full Story... 

Rachael Kollman and Laura Scroggie chat about their summers as they sit in the Pioneer Food Court in the Oakland Center. 

Seemingly, they are just like every other student, but both suffer from mild cognitive disabilities. They attend class at OU through the 

Oakland University Post-Secondary TransitIONS program run by the School of Education and Human Services. 

Full Story... 

Three hundred high school students interested in health and science careers glimpsed careers of the future when they visited 

Oakland University for MichBio Life Sciences Career Day on Thursday, Nov. 20. 

Full Story... 

Advising Resource Center guidance counselors focused their planning efforts on students' strengths and interests while helping to 

identify educational paths that lead to career success. 

Full Story... 

The Oakland University Christianity Studies program hosted a viewing and panel discussion of "Constantine's Sword," the Oscarnominated 

documentary that explores issues of Christianity and anti-Semitism. 

Full Story... 

Given that organizers of the American College Theatre Region III Festival considered entries 

hailing from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin, selection of the cast and crew of 

"The Trojan Women" to perform in the 2009 festival was seen as a feather in the cap of the 

growing Department of Music, Theatre and Dance program. 

Full Story... 

The School of Nursing began offering a occupational health nursing certificate program - a 

continuing education course designed to help RNs successfully complete the certified 

Occupational Health Nurse Specialist Examination. 

Full Story... 

To keep education accessible during Michigan's economic crisis, Oakland University created a special tuition assistance fund to 

help financially struggling students continue their studies. 

Full Story... 

The SOAR program helped prepare nursing students for careers as patient care technicians and enhanced their prospects for 

further advancement within the nursing profession. 

Full Story... 

Faculty and students are looking forward to a powerful partnership that blossomed following a November visit from renowned 

researcher and prominent education researcher Tom Barone. 

Full Story... 

The School of Nursing presented the inaugural issue of "The Pulse," a magazine that highlights the innovative geriatric nursing 



practices, education and research taking place at OU. 

Full Story... 

Introduced in fall, the School of Business Administration's ACHIEVE program began to inspire, guide and prepare students for their 

ideal business career by equipping them with the skills they need to succeed. 

Full Story... 


Quality Graduate Programs 

The Music Educators Journal, one of the leading practitioner journals for the field worldwide, published an article authored by an 

Oakland University graduate student. 

Full Story... 

Graduate student Angela Kayi, CAS '00, earned a Provost's Graduate Student Research Award this past year for her master's thesis 

project, "Creativity, Appearance and Sites of Authority." This is the first time a student in the master of arts in Liberal Studies 

program had won this academic honor. The program began in fall 2003. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University became the only university in the world to offer International Baccalaureate Level 1 program education for 

teachers spanning the entire K-12 curriculum, offered in conjunction with the IB Organization in Cardiff, Wales. The program was 

granted approval in December 2007 and the first group of students began coursework in January 2008. 

Full Story... 

Visit Jane Winn's third grade classroom at Ewell Elementary School and you might find students reading. While this doesn't seem 

out of the ordinary, Winn provides the students with silent reading time - a time when the students can make themselves comfortable 

and immerse themselves in the storyline of their favorite book. Winn said this isn't just classroom busywork; the silent reading helps 

students connect their interests with what they read. With the help of a $2,000 "Teacher as Researcher" grant from International 

Reading Association, Winn is looking at the importance of silent reading. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University officials announced that the Thomas M. Cooley Law School-Auburn Hills campus has become the exclusive 

educational law school of Oakland University, and that Oakland University is now the exclusive education partner university of 

Cooley Law School's Auburn Hills campus. Launched today were several significant additions to the institutions' longstanding 

partnership. 

Full Story... 


Quality Students 

Artwork by recent OU grads Nicole Vinegar and Chris Ames got quite a bit of exposure. A 

painting by Vinegar and a drawing by Ames were selected to be displayed in the Senate 

Farnum Office Building and the Anderson House Office Building in Lansing as part of the Art 

in the Senate and Art in the House Program. The art program features the artwork of 

students from Michigan's 15 public universities. The artwork was placed in October and will 

remain in Lansing for one year. 

Full Story... 

Three Oakland University students were awarded the university's most prestigious awards at 

the April 15 meeting of the Board of Trustees. Nicole Piggott and Christopher Fecek 

received the 2008 Matilda R. and Alfred G. Wilson Awards and Mia Evans received the Human Relations Award. The students were 

selected for the awards based on their service and achievements as Oakland University students. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University students elected Steve Clark and Daniel Evola as the OU Student Congress president 

and vice president for the 2008-09 academic year. This year's elections drew a record number of 

students to the polls. Clark, a senior, and his running mate Evola, a freshman, had a platform that 

included continuing funding free newspapers on campus, working closely with the Student Program 

Board to bring first-class events to OU, working with the administration on issues like tuition, parking and 

on campus housing, making OU athletic events more visible to students, continuing discussions for an 

OU football team, working with the student liaisons to the Board of Trustees to give students a voice in 

major university decisions and working to get students compensated by $4.8 million in deferred payment 

to the universi ty from the state. 

Full Story... 

The achievements of students and alumni of the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance (MTD) took 

center stage during the Ninth Annual MaTilDa Awards celebrated in April at the Centerpoint Marriott. The 

awards are presented annually to students and alumni from MTD for their accomplishments in memory of Matilda Dodge Wilson, cofounder 

of Oakland University. 

Full Story... 



Michigan Campus Compact (MCC) honored 159 students from 23 campuses with awards for their 

commitment to service learning, and civic engagement. Among them were three Oakland University 

students. OU Senior Jameelah Muhammad received the Commitment to Service Award and Amanda 

Rymiszweski and Mathew Sawicki received the Heart and Soul Award. The students were recognized 

during the Outstanding Student Service Awards in April. 

Full Story... 

Katie Prawdzik, who always wanted to study internationally, found her chance. An education senior, 

Prawdzik will won an opportunity to spend five weeks in New Zealand and immerse herself in the teaching 

culture in an effort to learn more about the country's educational system. During her time in New Zealand, 

Prawdzik planned to maintain a blog of her experience and share it with the university community. 

Full Story... 

Seven future music educators from OU received some extra education of their own during the Music Educators' National 

Conference in Milwaukee. No student group from OU had ever attended the biannual event, said Chelsea Rhodes, a senior studying 

music education and the vice president of OU's chapter of the Collegiate Music Educators' National Conference (CMENC). 

Full Story... 

In late April, June Teisan stood on the lawn of the White House with 55 other educators as part of a 

national conference for state teachers of the year. Teisan, a science teacher at the Harper Woods 

Secondary School, was invited after being named the 2007-08 Michigan Teacher of the Year. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University accounting students had the opportunity to meet and interact with one of the most 

influential leaders of the accounting profession during a breakfast at the Michigan Association of Certified 

Public Accountants' Members Advisory Forum. The students met with Barry Melancon, president and 

CEO of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, who was the keynote speaker at the semiannual 

Members Advisory Forum. 

Full Story... 

Lauren Podell began her job as WDIV Local 4's newest traffic reporter in January. During one of her 

traffic reports, Podell described the morning commute as "boring." A few hours later, she ate her words as a tanker slid off an 

overpass and caused an explosion. 

Full Story... 

Three students from Oakland University's Department of Music, Theatre and Dance were 

selected to participate in the American Choral Director Association regional conference in 

Grand Rapids in February. The students participated in the 160-student conference chorale 

and helped demonstrate the different ways that collegiate choral students learn and the 

different methods for teaching them. OU students Heather Mitcham, Matthew Smith and 

Caitlyn Byrne were selected from more than 300 applicants from 29 universities across the 

Midwest to participate as part of the collegiate chorale. The OU students attended the 

conference with Professor of Music Education Deborah Blair. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University students Norma Parker and Javier Saucedo each were awarded the 

Vicente Fox Quesada Scholarship, which honors the Mexican president and is awarded to 

Oakland students seeking international study or cross-cultural opportunities in Mexico and to Mexican students who are studying at 

Oakland. 

Full Story... 

Undergraduate students from the University of Michigan-Dearborn, the University of Michigan-Flint and 

Oakland University participated in the 16th annual Meeting of the Minds in May. With presentations 

ranging from complex chemical analysis to relationship studies, the event attracted spectators to the 

poster presentations and the oral presentations, which were held in South Foundation Hall. 

Full Story... 

Peter Banachowski sees life as a joke - literally. As a comedian, the events in Banachowski's life often 

become the topic of his stand-up bits. From humorous every day events to funny past relationships, 

Banachowski hopes to make a career of making people laugh. The OU junior is already getting his start 

performing locally in stand-up clubs and working with OU's Student Video Productions club. 

Full Story... 

The photographic work of Oakland University students, faculty and staff who participated in 

the annual Photo Contest hung in the Oakland Center Fireside Lounge in late March. Alena 

Vackova took home first place for the color category and Windy Rood took first place for 

black and white. 

Full Story... 

Rebecca Mansfield wanted the Student Michigan Education Association (SMEA) at Oakland 

University to hold a formal dinner at the end of the academic year to celebrate the students. 

When she suggested the event, she had no idea it would be held in her honor. Mansfield 

passed away March 12 after a brief but courageous battle with leukemia. She was just months from completing her degree and 

getting married. To fulfill her desire for the event, the students of SMEA hosted the Rebecca Mansfield Memorial Dinner at Meadow 

Brook Hall in May, with the proceeds benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. 



Full Story... 

Twin brothers Alonzo and Brennon Edwards couldn't be more different - they look different, and they are exploring two different 

career paths at two different universities. But they found a way to come back together, uniting over their different passions. Alonzo, 

a student at the College for Creative Studies, and Brennon, a student in the School of Business Administration, created Fraternal 

Easels, a business that will distribute Alonzo's artwork with Brennon running the business aspect. 

Full Story... 

Ashley Maria Bahri traveled to Italy this summer to immerse herself in Italian culture, language and 

Italian opera. The OU alumna received the 2008 Hollingsworth European Study Award, which invited her 

to study at the Italian Operatic Experience program in Urbania, Italy for five weeks in July and August. 

There she studied Italian and learn about opera while performing Giacomo Puccini's "La Bohème." 

Professor of Composition Stanley Hollingsworth died in 2004 and left behind the chance for OU music 

students to go to Europe for a summer study program at a music school of their choice. Hollingsworth 

believed a similar experience early in his career changed his life. 

Full Story... 

On May 5, 2007, Kristine LeMieux woke up at 2 a.m. to make her way to local auditions for the NBC 

prime-time game show, "Deal or No Deal." When her alarm went off, LeMieux considered going back to 

sleep, but she had a feeling that maybe she would get picked for the show. That same feeling helped the 

Oakland University junior secure $238,000 in a winner-take-all, battle of the sexes episode of "Deal or 

No Deal" that aired in early February. 

Full Story... 

Alice Carleton is a secretary in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, but she is also a dancer, singer, writer, poet and now 

a student. Carleton began taking classes at OU in fall 2007 at the age of 61. To support her studies, Carleton was awarded the 

Linda Lael Miller Scholarship for Women. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University sophomore and entrepreneur Ross Maghielse continued building on an already 

successful career in broadcasting as founder and part owner of the growing Michigan Sports Radio. 

Maghielse used to be an avid basketball player for Rockford High School, but he was forced to stop 

playing because of a recurring hamstring injury. His love for sports drove him to stay involved in 

athletics, and he came up with an idea to broadcast high school games over the Internet. 

Full Story... 

Tawnee Milko has always believed in giving back to her community. She was heavily involved in her 

high school, church and her family. At OU, she served OU as the Honors College Student Association 

president, and was involved in REACH, OU Environmental Coalition and the Pre-Medical Club. In 

2008, she served the students of OU as the student liaison to the Board of Trustees. In that capacity, 

she sought out and provided the students' perspective during BOT meetings, and helped keep 

students updated on BOT actions. 

Full Story... 

Two students from OU presented their research at the 4th annual International Interdisciplinary Conference on Clinical Supervision 

in June in Buffalo, New York. The case study was about the roles of supervisors in counseling, and was written by Sandra 

Manoogian, a doctoral student in the counseling department, and Sheri Pickover, a graduate from OU's doctoral program in 

counselor education, and assistant professor of counseling at the University of Detroit Mercy. 

Full Story... 

Aaron Lehr began running in elementary school. To his classmates, he was known as "The Flash." 

Throughout elementary, middle and high school, Lehr continued to run for sport. A graduate student 

in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, he planned to run in the Brooksie Way half marathon that 

will started and finished at OU's Meadow Brook Hall. Lehr documented his training through a blog. 

Staff members of OU's Division of Student Affairs also trained to participate in the Brooksie Way. The 

group is tracked their progress through a blog. Nicknamed Snyder's Striders, the team from Student 

Affairs registered together. Many will participate in the 5K and some will participate in the 10-mile 

event. The Brooksie Way is dedicated to the memory of Oakland County Executive L. Brooks 

Patterson's son, who was killed in a snowmo bile accident in February 2007. 

Full Story... 

Marilyn Burns' summer was like those of most college students. She worked and spent time with her 

family. Her situation was unique, however, because she did both at the same time. Burns, a music 

major planning to graduate in 2009, is one of the four managing directors of Burns Family Studios, a semi-professional film studio 

that is currently producing a feature-length historical epic. Burns is using her Oakland University piano education and fulfilling her 

Honors College thesis project by working on a musical score for the film the family-run studio produced this summer. 

Full Story... 

Master of Public Administration student Sonya Bellafant (CAS '93) got a unique opportunity to garner 

real-world experience as a student liaison on the Rochester Downtown Development Authority Board. 

After earning a law degree from Michigan State University College of Law, she worked for Legal Aid of 

Western Michigan and became interested in the public sector. As a second-generation Oakland 

University student, Bellafant watched how OU and Rochester have grown and transformed, and she 

jumped at the chance to take part on the Rochester DDA board. As a second-generation Oakland 

University student, Bellafant has watched how OU and Rochester have grown and transformed, and she 



jumped at the chance to take part on the Rochester DDA board, which involves providing updates to the 

board, as well as providing a student perspective. 

Full Story... 

Students who wanted to get involved on campus had a chance to learn more about some exciting 

campus leadership opportunities at information sessions held throughout January. Positions available 

included Orientation Group Leaders (OGL) for summer 2009, Resident Assistants, Nightwatch and Peer Mentor positions for the 

2009-10 academic year. 

Full Story... 

Ninety-four-year-old Edward Pintzuk enrolled in a history class in the fall, making him the oldest student ever to attend classes at 

Oakland University. While fellow classmates were taking classes to earn enough credits to graduate, Pintzuk is in class for one 

reason - to expand his knowledge. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's fourth annual Grizzdance film festival, a three-day event showcasing some of the university's most talented 

student filmmakers, took place in November. Screenings of all student film entries were held in the Oakland Center Fireside Lounge. 

Full Story... 

SBA students made strides as social entrepreneurs when they helped several regional social organizations consolidate as the 

Family Service Alliance for Southeastern Michigan and save $300,000 in the process. 

Full Story... 

OU students in all of the university's engineering programs relied on their ingenuity to harvest energy, which was the objective of a 

senior design project requiring them to build electrical generators that use no fuel. 

Full Story... 

The Oakland County Office of Arts, Culture & Film office elected to display the work of 25 OU art students who explored what it 

meant to be visual artists in 2008. 

Full Story... 

Andrew Batson, a general business major and economics minor in the School of Business Administration focused his independent 

study in urban economics by analyzing the economic impact of the hotly debated Cobo Hall renovation and related funding 

proposals. 

Full Story... 

A group of inspired students worked with Chartwells, Oakland University's food service provider, in creating a food sharing 

partnership with Forgotten Harvest, a food rescue organization serving the Detroit metropolitan area. 

Full Story... 

Eight seniors in OU's studio art program exhibited a body of work representing the culmination of their four years of study during 

"Beneath the Surface: BA in Studio Art Senior Thesis Fall Exhibition." 

Full Story... 


Athletics 

IUPUI's George Hill scored a game-high 32 points and Oakland University shot just 36 percent from the 

floor (22-61) as the Jaguars (26-6) advanced to the championship game of The Summit League men's 

basketball tournament with an 80-65 win over the Golden Grizzlies (17-14) on Monday night in John Q. 

Hammons Arena at the UMAC. Junior Derick Nelson led OU with his fifth double-double of the season, 

tallying 21 points and 12 rebounds. The Golden Grizzlies trailed the entire opening 20 minutes, posting a 

quick 5-0 run to creep within three points, 28-25, with 3:56 left until halftime. 

Full Story... 

During the quarterfinals, Junior Erik Kangas scored a game-high 26 points, making 6-of-13 from behind 

the arc, and junior Derick Nelson scored 17 points and grabbed nine rebounds, to lead the Oakland 

University men's basketball team (17-13) past Western Illinois (12-18), 80-66. The Golden Grizzlies broke 

a school and tournament record with 55 free throw attempts, making 35 in the game. 

Full Story... 

While Oakland University's men's basketball team's season ended in the semi-finals of The Summit League Tournament, members 

of the team earned several league honors and also set new records. Among the honors, Oakland University's Derick Nelson was 

named to the 2008 Men's Basketball Summit League Championship All-Tournament Team and Nelson and sophomore Johnathon 



Jones were named to the all-Summit League teams. Among the most notable accomplishments, senior Patrick McCloskey became 

Oakland's all-time leader in career games played with 125. McCloskey surpassed Shawn Hopes' mark of 118. 

Full Story... 

Despite an 18-point effort by junior Jessica Pike and a 12-point performance by junior April Kidd, the 

Oakland University women's basketball team (20-10) was unable to overcome the long-range shooting of 

the Oral Roberts University Golden Eagles, falling 71-61 in the semifinals of The Summit League 

Women's Basketball Championship on Monday. The men's team takes on number two seed IUPUI on 

Monday, March 10 at 9:30 p.m. EST. The semifinal game will be regionally televised on FSN Plus. It can 

also be heard on OU's student radio station WXOU (88.3 FM). 

Full Story... 

In the quarterfinal round, Junior Jessica Pike scored 15 points with nine rebounds, freshman Stacey 

Farrell scored 10 points, and sophomore Melissa Jeltema turned in a nine-point, 11-rebound 

performance as the Oakland University women's basketball team picked up a 60-49 victory over 

Centenary. 

Full Story... 

OU men's basketball head coach Greg Kampe and women's head coach Beckie Francis are used to the pressure of coaching two 

high profile basketball teams. In February, they felt a different kind of heat. Kampe and Francis cooked meals on bd's Mongolian 

Barbeque's grill to raise money for cancer. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University student-athletes found success both on and off the court last season, and 143 Golden Grizzlies student-athletes 

were named to The Summit League Winter-Spring Academic All-Summit League teams. After placing second in the league last fall 

with 61 student-athletes named to the fall academic squad, and placing second in the spring with 143, OU took the overall top spot 

with 204 academic honorees. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University senior Riikka Terava was named a recipient of the annual Paul F. Lorenz/Texas 

Instruments Excellence Award for Rising Seniors for the 2008-09 academic year, as announced by the 

School of Business Administration. The late Paul Lorenz, a former executive vice president of Ford Motor 

Company and long-time friend and benefactor of Oakland University and the School of Business 

Administration (SBA), established this annual award to be given to Oakland University SBA seniors solely on 

the basis of grade point average. Scholarships are awarded to the four rising seniors with the highest grade 

point among SBA students. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's men's and women's swimming and diving teams had a total team effort in winning their 

ninth straight Summit League Championships. 

Full Story... 

The Oakland University Golden Grizzlies took on two of the Big Ten's leading men's soccer teams at the Michigan Bucks College 

Cup II tournament held in April at the Ultimate Soccer Arenas in Pontiac. 

Full Story... 

More than 100 of Oakland University's student-athletes were named to the 2007 Mid-Continent Conference Commissioner's List of 

Academic Excellence, an honor the OU student-athletes consistently earn. Athletics prides itself on the success of its studentathletes 

not only in their respective sports, but also in the classroom. Through programs, planning and mentoring, Athletics helps 

students prepare for the challenge of busy schedules and demanding workloads to help them succeed not only at Oakland, but also 

in the future. 

Full Story... 

As the Oakland University Men's Club Hockey team prepared for the American Collegiate Hockey Association national tournament, 

there was one person who kept tabs on the team's progress. Will McMahon had been in this position before. An OU hockey player 

through last season, McMahon helped the team win three national championships, has been honored as the player of the year and 

named to the All-American team multiple years and was the national scoring leader in 2006 and 2007. For all of McMahon's 

successes, the team honored him at the beginning of the season by retiring his number-the first time OU hockey has retired the 

number of any player. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's men's club hockey team lost to Oklahoma 4-3 in the first round of the American Collegiate Hockey 

Association's (ACHA) Division I National Tournament. The Grizzlies were looking to defend their national title. 

Full Story... 

Ten years ago, there was a lot less on campus. There was no Pawley Hall, no parking 

structure, no student apartments, no Elliott Hall, fewer students, fewer majors and no Rec 

Center and the programs that go along with it. In 1998, thanks to support from Student 

Congress, Student Affairs, Athletics and the OU administration the Recreation and Athletics 

Center was opened, replacing the Lepley Sports Center with a state-of-the-art fitness and 

athletics facility. Campus Recreation will celebrate the occasion with a tailgate prior to the 

annual Campus Recreation versus University Housing flag football match-up. A private, 

invitation-only event is also planned for charter members. 

Full Story... 



Oakland University's men's soccer team played three games at the Ultimate Soccer Arena in Pontiac, the largest indoor soccer 

facility in the Midwest. 

Full Story... 

Having a family member fall ill to cancer is not only heartbreaking, but is also financially burdening during such a hard time. Just ask 

Oakland University women's soccer head coach Nick O'Shea. He's been there. O'Shea's sister passed away from leukemia when 

she was only six years old. 

Full Story... 

The Oakland University Housing Department and Golden Grizzlies Athletics formed a new partnership for the 2008-09 academic 

year. This new partnership is a shared focus of Director of Athletics Tracy Huth and Housing Director Lionel Maten to encourage 

further student and community engagement in campus events, including athletics. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University Athletics proudly announced the launch of the 2008-09 Grizz Kidz Club, 

an exclusive for children in eighth grade and under that allows for active involvement and 

participation in OU Athletics. Kidz Club members enjoy the opportunity to meet and greet 

with OU athletes, gain free entry to all home contests, receive free club shirts and 

giveaways, sit in reserved seating at OU basketball games and many more benefits. 

Full Story... 

WOCOU (Week of Champions at Oakland University), themed "WOCOU will rock yOU," 

began in mid-October with the annual kickoff in the Pioneer Food Court and concluded with 

Midnite Madnezz. Also part of the week's celebration were two community service projects. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University announced that the university community will celebrate its first official 

homecoming Feb. 6-7, 2009, during Come Home to OU. "I see this weekend becoming one 

of Oakland's marquee events to showcase the legacy and spirit of the university," said Gary Russi, OU president. "We're expecting 

the event to become a much-anticipated fixture on the OU calendar." 

Full Story... 

The Oakland University men's basketball team hosted Michigan on Saturday, Dec. 20, and Michigan State on Saturday, Dec. 27, at 

The Palace of Auburn Hills. Tickets for both games were included in the OU season ticket package, and single-game tickets 

included tickets to a reception hosted by the OU Alumni Association. 

Full Story... 

The Oakland University men's soccer team (14-4-1) hosted 2007 national runner-up Ohio State in the opening round of the 2008 

NCAA Division I Men's Soccer Championships on Saturday, Nov. 22. 

Full Story... 

Plans were finalized to make Oakland University's first-ever homecoming celebration an 

exhilarating, pride-filled and truly memorable experience - one that will undoubtedly become 

a treasured Grizzly tradition. 

Full Story... 

OU's first-ever Festival of Sport was a daylong event featuring three of the university's 

athletic teams in action, as well as fellowship, fun and freebies. 

Full Story... 


Student Organizations 

Oakland University's Gender and Sexuality Center began offering the first lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) peer 

mentoring program in Michigan this fall. The program is open to undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral LGBT students in their first 

year at OU, and will promote connections and positive identities by providing support and empowerment to students on a one-onone 

basis. LGBT students have the opportunity to gain support, confidence, acceptance and guidance as they begin their academic 

careers at OU. 

Full Story... 

Seven Oakland University students traveled to Mt. Pleasant, S.C., for Habitat for Humanity's 

Collegiate Challenge. This was the third year OU's chapter of Habitat for Humanity 

participated in the national alternative break program. The OU students participated in the 

East Copper Habitat for Humanity build project. The local chapter was building houses within 

a subdivision. OU students helped install beams, supports and subflooring, as well as worked 

on pre-builds for doors and windows. 

Full Story... 

Walking into the Formula SAE garage on campus, a group of students worked on their car, 

making final adjustments before the Formula SAE competition on Michigan International 

Speedway May 14-18. Only these weren't OU students. They are from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in Australia and 

they were one of three international teams that OU hosted before the competition. OU also hosted teams from Finland and Austria. 

The Australian team did not come to OU in 2007 choosing instead to participate in the competition in the United Kingdom, which 



they won. In 2008, that competition was combined with the Formula SAE competition so the Australian team sought to defend their 

world title. 

Full Story... 

OU's Formula SAE team took a new approach when designing their car to race in the 2008 

Formula SAE competition: simple is better. After enduring disappointing vehicle issues at the 

last three annual competitions, this year's team hoped the simple approach would yield them 

a better finish. The Formula SAE competition took place May 14-18 at the Michigan 

International Speedway. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) qualified as one of the four regional 

teams to participate in the SIFE National Exposition Competition to be held May 13-15 in 

Kansas City. At the national competition, hundreds of students from around the country gathered to compete for a spot on the SIFE 

World Cup in Singapore. According to SIFE president Brennon Edwards, the competition at regionals was tough and he knew the 

national competition would be just as challenging. 

Full Story... 

A group of engineering students worked to turn a converted wheelchair into an unmanned vehicle that 

can navigate a course in the Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition held at Oakland University May 30 

through June 2. The international competition featured robots from various universities that move 

independently on an increasingly more difficult course located in the field at the corner of Walton and 

Adams roads. The team of eight students, including graduate and undergraduate computer science, 

electrical engineering students and systems engineering students used what they have learned in their 

studies to create a competitive robot. 

Full Story... 

To raise awareness of the crisis in Darfur, Oakland University's Hand in Hand student organization held 

the "Step Up!" festival and fundraiser in April. The event included a garage sale; an auction of 

autographed items; a live performance by Akwaaba, an African drum ensemble; and a showing of "God 

Grew Tired of Us: The Lost Boys of Sudan," a documentary about the atrocities in the Darfur region and 

the thousands of boys who have lost their families or been displaced as a result of the crisis. Following the documentary, Jacob 

Atem, one of the Lost Boys, spoke about his experiences in Sudan and how he managed to escape. 

Full Story... 

A converted wheelchair, a little horsepower and a bunch of algorithms helped Oakland University 

engineering students place 10 th overall in the Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition. The students 

turned the wheelchair into a vehicle to independently navigate an increasingly more difficult course 

as part of the international competition. The team also placed seventh in the design competition 

and won $500 for meeting compliance standards. 

Full Story... 

In 2007, Cortney Glass competed in the International Horse Show Association national 

championship and thought it would be her final competition. However, Glass got back on the horse 

and after a successful season, she represented OU again in the national championships in May in 

Burbank, Calif. 

Full Story... 

Up 'til Dawn, a student organization that raises money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in an effort to help child cancer 

patients in Metro Detroit, announced that the group raised $16,870 during the letter writing campaign held in November 2007. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) was named a Superior Merit Chapter for the 2007-08 

academic year, as well as being honored as one of the top 10 Outstanding Chapters of the year by the national committee. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's American Marketing Association gained real-world experience and helped animals by raising money for the 

Michigan Humane Society through the organization's annual telethon to air on WXYZ-TV Channel 7 in February. The Collegiate 

Telethon Challenges puts OU up against students from local universities in an "Apprentice"-style collegiate campaign. 

Full Story... 

The members Alpha Sigma Tau spent their summer enjoying their new home on campus, after moving into the cottage district near 

the east entrance of campus in January. They planned to bond as sisters, display their sorority letters and colors and work to build 

up their membership. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's newly formed Aerial Systems student organization made its way to the 

Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International's Student Unmanned Aerial 

Systems competition in Maryland in June. The four students involved designed and built a 

quad-rotor flying apparatus. When they got to the competition, even the judges questioned 

the ability of the contraption to work. However, the OU vehicle performed well, taking fifth 

place in the competition and placing ahead of schools such as Embry Riddle Aeronautical 

University and UCLA. 

Full Story... 



Student Moms Integrating Lives and Education (SMILE) began offering support to women 

who have taken on the challenge of pursuing higher education while raising a family. 

Full Story... 

German Club students adopted the spirit of 'Kris Kringle' while volunteering to assist with arts, crafts and storytelling in the kids' area 

at the Kris Kringle Market in Rochester during Thanksgiving weekend. 

Full Story... 

The Student Nursing Association at Oakland University (SNAOU) has brought the spirit of caring to their community for a long time. 

With more than 200 members, SNAOU participates in numerous charitable events, including the American Cancer Society's Relay 

for Life, March of Dimes' March for Babies and Walk for Warmth, an annual campaign to help Oakland County families cover winter 

heating expenses. 

Full Story... 


Alumni 

Quite a bit has changed since Regina Carter, CAS '85, last spent time in the classrooms of Varner 

Hall. For one, she isn't a student this time. A Grammy nominated and internationally acclaimed jazz 

violinist, Carter was on campus for two separate weeks as an artist in residence, teaching master 

classes and working with students, faculty and ensembles. 

Full Story... 

Two OU students participated in the prestigious Teach for America program and got the chance to 

help improve the lives of low-income students in New York City. The students, Katie (Miller) Vitale 

and Jameelah Muhammad, were among more than 3,700 teachers teaching in low-income, urban 

and rural communities as part of the program. They were selected out of 24,718 applicants, many 

from America's most selective universities. 

Full Story... 

Evan Rokicki, SEHS '07 and a master of arts in American history student spent his summer south of the equator as part of a 

Fulbright Hays group program that traveled to Ecuador to participate in the cultural immersion experience to internationalize their 

teaching and curriculum. 

Full Story... 

In 2007, a linguistics master's graduate received a Fulbright scholarship to study and 

conduct research in Germany for one year. Nearing the end of her scholarship and gearing 

up for the next phase of her life, Garland found a better fit with researchers in Leipzig. She 

planned to work on cognitive linguistics projects for both the Max Planck Institute for 

Evolutionary Anthropology (EVA) and the Max Planck Institute for Cognitive and Brain 

Science (CBS). 

Full Story... 

Many 20-somethings leaving college set out to find a job, define themselves, get their own 

apartments and enter into a serious relationship. "Crain's Detroit Business" identified 20 local 

20-somethings who excel at what they do. Two of the "20 in their 20s" on the list were OU alumni. David Cherry, a program 

development officer at The Guidance Center in Southgate, and Sarah Morgan, executive director of Think Girl, made the list of 

those in their 20s making their mark on Metro Detroit. 

Full Story... 

Austin, the capital of Texas, is 300-square miles with nearly a million residents, 12,000 employees, 40 subsidiaries, a $2.25 billion 

budget and one Oakland University alumnus overseeing all of it. Mark Ott, SBA '79 and MPA '81, was named the first African- 

American city manager of Austin. A native of Pontiac and West Bloomfield, Ott got his start in public service during his master's 

program at Oakland University and doesn't intend to stop helping others anytime soon. 

Full Story... 

OU alumna Catie Hormel didn't let a little thing like brain cancer keep her down when she 

was 16, and now she is helping lift the spirits of other children with cancer. She is part of 

Detroit's chapter of Queen for a Day and Heroes, an organization dedicated to raising the 

self-esteem and confidence of children with cancer. When Hormel was 16, she was 

diagnosed with brain cancer. She had surgery, six weeks of radiation and two years of 

chemotherapy, and is healthy now. During all her time in the hospital she went to some of 

the Queen for a Day events in the hospital. Hormel said she thought the events were fun, 

and then started finding ways to help. 



Full Story... 

Joseph Drew, CAS '71, has a lot on his plate. His is a political science professor at Kent State University in Ohio, where he also 

serves as coordinator of the Kent State Master of Public Administration Program. It wasn't enough. Drew went searching for 

something that would provide him more fulfillment. He found it in creating a program that will help those with disabilities, including 

injured soldiers at Veterans Affairs hospitals, earn their college degrees. For his work, Drew was honored with the Coleman 

Foundation's 2008 Educator of the Year for College/University Award. 

Full Story... 

When Lauren Sinclair, CAS '07, was younger, she hated sailing and would do whatever she could to 

avoid it. Now, sailing is Sinclair's life. After getting involved in the summer camp program at the Detroit 

Yacht Club, participating in sailing in college and participating in a number of regional, national and 

international races, Sinclair has her next course set - the 2012 Olympics. Sinclair came to OU from the 

University of South Florida. A Michigan native, Sinclair had hurt her shoulder and needed to return home 

for treatment. At her former school, Sinclair was a member of the Division I varsity sailing team. Coming 

back to Michigan, she figured she wouldn't sail in college anymore. After two years off, Sinclair joined 

OU's sailing club and regained her passion. 

Full Story... 

Shortly before their first child was born, Leonard Magro and his wife decided to take on another type of 

challenge - starting their own business. Combining their backgrounds, they started Magro International, a 

website marketing company based in Rochester. As two young professionals, they found little in the way 

of networking or support. Now they have created Young Professionals of Rochester and OU faculty and staff can get involved. 

Full Story... 

Cheryl Angelelli, CAS '93, participated in her third, and possibly final, Paralympic Games in Beijing this summer. At the beginning of 

each Paralympics, she sets a goal for herself. In Sydney, she wanted to make the finals. In Greece, she wanted to get a medal. In 

Beijing, Angelelli's goal was to win the gold. 

Full Story... 

As a reporter for the Detroit Free Press, John Masson (CAS '92), earned a national Emmy award for his 

work on "Michigan Marines: Band of Brothers," a 23-part video series. Masson and Free Press 

videographer Stephen McGee reported from Michigan on the war's impact on local families, while 

colleagues Joe Swickard and videographer David Gilkey deployed with the Michigan-based reservists of 

the 1st Battalion of the 24th Marines during their training in California and service in Iraq. 

Full Story... 

Peter Karsten's career started out in the business world. With a bachelor's degree in accounting and a 

master's in business administration, Karsten first worked at a large accounting firm and earned the 

certified public accountant title. While working on his MBA, Karsten had the opportunity to serve as a 

teaching assistant for an introductory accounting course. The experience caused him to examine his 

career path and move toward teaching. Armed with a master's in education leadership from Oakland University, Karsten combined 

his love for education and his business background in his new role as president of Baker College in Owosso. 

Full Story... 

Suzanne Kimmerly, SEHS '82 and '84, has always liked helping others. She started at 

Oakland University with the desire to go into nursing but found her true passion in 

counseling. While she likes helping people, she has also devoted her life to helping dogs, 

specifically greyhounds who have been dropped off the racing circuit. Most are given two 

fates: go to a rescue society or be killed. Kimmerly, who works with Michigan Retired 

Greyhounds as Pets (MI REGAP) is helping to place the dogs in caring homes. 

Full Story... 

Detroit is trying to rebuild and promote growth in the downtown area. OU alumnus Fred 

Schwark, CAS '89, is part of that. Schwark was named regional manager of The Downtown 

Collection, which includes the First National Building, the Penobscot Building, the Cadillac Building, Alden Park Towers, Lafayette 

Towers and a new, $150 million development recently announced by the city. 

Full Story... 

Since 1968, the 728 th Military Police (MP) Battalion annually has participated in the Troy 

Barboza Special Olympics Torch Run in Hawaii. In 2008, the battalion was deployed in 

support of Operation Iraqi Freedom but the members don't want to give up their annual 

event. OU alumnus and Second Lieutenant Jody Holeton, CAS '00, helped organize a 5K 

Special Olympic Torch Run on Contingency Operating Base Speicher, in Iraq. 

Full Story... 

Armed with a background in journalism and experience in recruiting and real estate, Heidi 



Hedquist serves as editor of After5Detroit.com, a website for Detroiters looking for a place to connect with each other and the 

community. She combines her communication and business skills to inform young professionals that Detroit can provide 

opportunities for networking and social interaction like any other metropolitan city. 

Full Story... 

From a young age, Lauren Becker, CAS '94, has been collecting comics and collectible toys - 

a hobby that helped pay for his English degree from Oakland University. After the death of 

Superman in the DC comics in 1992, Becker made $10,000 in one day and decided then to 

open a store and make it his business. Becker opened his first store in Clawson nine years 

ago. Recently, he opened another location of Warp 9 in the Auburn Square shopping center, 

located at the northeast corner of Squirrel and Walton roads. 

Full Story... 

February was membership appreciation month at the Oakland University Recreation Center. 

During this time, select members were recognized for their loyalty and the example they 

display by leading active and healthy lifestyles. One of the nominated members is alumna Judy Evans, SECS '87. Evans has been a 

loyal member of the Oakland University Alumni Association since 1996 and is a charter member of the OU Recreation Center, which 

opened its doors in 1998. Evans said the Recreation Center membership discount has been a great incentive for her to be a part of 

the OUAA. 

Full Story... 

The Oakland University Alumni Association awarded scholarships to 28 OU students and alumni for the 2008-09 academic year. 

The recipients were honored during the Scholarship Recognition Breakfast in Meadow Brook Hall. 

Full Story... 

The Oakland University Alumni Association (OUAA) Board of Directors confirmed a slate of five new directors at its biannual meeting 

on May 8, 2008. Joining the board for three-year terms are OU alumni Aman Awan, SBA '01, account executive, Hartford Life; 

Joseph T. Davidson, CAS '71, assistant city editor, Washington Post; Gregory T. Grabowski, CAS '91, president and CEO, Leader 

Dogs for the Blind; The Honorable Michael W. Michalak, CAS '68, U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam; and Teresa Stayer, SHS '84, owner 

and vice president, Spectra Med Incorporated. 

Full Story... 

The Alumni Admissions Ambassador Program is a growing, dedicated group of OU alumni - 

166 and counting. Alumni Admissions Ambassadors attend college fairs and other recruitment 

events to help recruit undergraduate students to Oakland University. Two of the newest OU 

alums on board are Detroit Tigers front office managers. Jill Baran, CAS '98, manager of Event 

and Guest Services, and Rick Thompson, CAS '02, manager of Baseball Media Relations, are 

enthusiastic and eager to serve Oakland as Ambassadors. Baran, a Regina High School 

graduate, oversees all events at Comerica Park throughout the year. She credits an internship 

posted in the Oakland University student paper as launching her career in sports. Thompson, a 

Lutheran High North graduate, credits his internship with the Tigers and his professors in the 

journalism program for his full-time post within the Tiger organization. 

Full Story... 

Bats are often misunderstood. They are often thought of as big-eating, rabies-ridden, scary 

creatures that fly around at night. OU alumnus Dave Kugler, CAS '95, is helping to educate the public about bats. Through his 

company, Critter Catchers, he has provided a $1,000 grant, which will be administered by the Organization for Bat Conservation and 

will enable the nonprofit organization, based at the Cranbrook Institute of Science, to offer supplemental funding in support of live 

bat programs. 

Full Story... 

Hollywood doesn't have a lock on rising movie stars - just ask Oakland University alumni Jennifer Kincer 

Catallo, CAS '93. Catallo, who has a long list of acting credits to her name - including a recent film with 

Dylan McDermott and a co-starring role in a feature film with Daniel Baldwin - says she is proud of being 

able to pursue her acting career while keeping her Michigan roots. Catallo attended Oakland on music 

and academic scholarships, eventually receiving the Jennifer Scott Memorial Music Award and the 

Musicology Honor Cord from Oakland's Department of Music, Theatre and Dance. After graduation, 

Catallo decided against moving to New York or Los Angeles, instead choosing to pursue her dreams in 

Michigan. 

Full Story... 

OU alumna Debbie Liedel, SEHS '78, has worked in the non-profit sector for nearly 30 years. She 

recently took over as executive director of The Family Center of Grosse Pointe and Harper Woods, a 

small organization in Grosse Pointe that offers family-based enrichment to the surrounding community. 

Liedel is enjoying the challenges that come along with working for a non-profit, as well as making a difference in her community. 

Full Story... 

When Nick Monterosso sees homeless people on the street in Detroit, he stops the car, gets out and engages them in a 

conversation. He listens to their stories, learns about their dreams for the future and helps them get off the street and toward a 

better future. Monterosso works with the United Way's 2-1-1 initiative in Detroit, a service that provides help in the health and human 

service areas to people in Washtenaw, Monroe, Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. 

Full Story... 

During the Go for the Gold program on Saturday, October 11, 2008 nearly 850 high school 

students and their parents attended academic and resource sessions, toured campus and 



mingled with OU faculty, staff and students. Five Alumni Admissions Ambassadors also shared 

how OU helped them get one step closer to their dream job during two resource sessions. 

They explained why they chose OU, activities they were involved in as undergraduates and 

relationships they formed with faculty - all which helped them secure a "dream job" in their 

chosen professions. 

Full Story... 

Two Oakland University alumni were named to this year's Crain's Detroit Business 40 Under 40 list. Leanne Bowen (BGS '97), 

project manager at Jones Lange LaSalle, and John Lesser, partner, Plante Moran Financial Advisors (SBA '92) both spent the 

week following the announcement reading e-mails and congratulatory notes from colleagues, and business and community leaders. 

Full Story... 

Lindsey Tycholiz (CAS '07) was crowned Miss Michigan USA and will compete in next spring's Miss USA Pageant in Las Vegas. 

The music education major, with minors in theatre and biology, vied against nearly 60 contestants at McMorran Place Theater in 

Port Huron in September. 

Full Story... 

Twenty-three Alumni Admissions Ambassadors represented Oakland University at college 

fairs during the month of October, answering parent questions and gaining the interest of 

prospective students. In-state ambassadors team up with undergraduate admissions 

advisers and out-of-state ambassadors independently represent OU at college fairs in their 

communities. 

Full Story... 

Attorney Stephen Kirksey remembers walking down Rochester's Main Street as a kid and 

dreaming about practicing law in an office above Lytle Pharmacy. Decades later, this 

Oakland University alumnus realized his dream when he hung his shingle on Main Street, 

just a couple blocks north of the pharmacy. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University continued building a small army of advocates ready to help persuade 

students to check out the more than 225 programs at one of the state's fastest growing 

universities. 

Full Story... 

An OU alumnus was selected to lead Rochester Christmas Parade in 2008, the fifth year the 

university participatedin the popular parade. 

Full Story... 


Inspired Faculty and Staff 

For their tireless dedication to excellence in teaching, scholarship, research and service, OU 

honored faculty members who provide students a distinctive education. This year 24 faculty 

members were honored for their accomplishments during a special luncheon on Wednesday, 

April 16, which also marked Founders' Day at Oakland University. 

Full Story... 

OU faculty and staff who achieved thirty and forty years of service during 2007 were 

honored at a dinner at Meadow Brook Hall hosted by OU President Gary Russi. The 

honorees also received a framed certificate commemorating their years of service and a 

specially designed gift. The gift for thirty years was a Bulova anniversary clock for the mantel engraved with Oakland University 30 

Years of Service. Recipients of the 40 year gift received a signature watch which was also engraved with the years of service, 1967- 

2007. 

Full Story... 

The School of Education and Human Services honored Dean Mary Otto on her appointment to lead OU in its 

expansion to Macomb County and other areas as the Vice President for Outreach. Otto has worked at OU for 

more than 30 years, and she has been dean of SEHS for more than 13 years. As Virinder Moudgil, vice president 

for academic affairs and provost, put it, she's "the deans' dean." 

Full Story... 

For the past three years, high school students from the International Academy have participated in research in the 

lab of Assistant Professor of Chemistry Ferman Chavez. After witnessing how interested the students became 

through their work in the lab, Chavez wanted to find a way to spread that interest in chemistry to other high school 

students. Chavez was awarded a National Science Foundation CAREER Award to fund a program to do just that. 

Full Story... 

Andrew Goldberg, Eye Research Institute associate professor, received a three-year, $245,000 research award from the E. Matilda 

Zeigler Foundation for the Blind, to support his studies of photoreceptor architecture and genetic retinal disease. 

Full Story... 



Through a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Saginaw Public Library offered a workshop for low-literacy 

families called "Prime Time Family Reading Time," which included reading, discussion and storytelling. Associate Professor of 

Education Gwendolyn McMillon served as a scholar for the program helping to facilitate book discussions each week. The program 

his home for McMillon, who frequented the library when she was growing up in the area. 

Full Story... 

Four of Oakland University's professors were selected for professorships through The Doris 

and Paul Travis Program Endowed Fund, recognizing accomplishments in teaching, 

research and/or professional service in the arts. 

Full Story... 

It seems like something out of a sci-fi movie. Potential employees turn over their genetic information to their future employers during 

the interview process. While it seems like fiction, OU professors Lizabeth Barclay and Karen Markel have been researching the 

possibility of this becoming a reality. Their research will help keep OU human resource management students up-to-date on how to 

handle sensitive information and the potential outcomes that come with collecting it. 

Full Story... 

The First Midwest Conference on Stem Cell Biology and Therapy was held at Oakland University May 9-11. The conference brought 

national and international experts in stem cell research to campus to explore recent findings in stem cell research and address the 

ethical and political issues associated with it. Professor of Biological Sciences, Rasul Chaudhry, was instrumental in organizing the 

conference, which was attended by researchers from hospitals, medical organizations, and academic institutions throughout the 

country. 

Full Story... 

In an office overshadowed by shelves of books piled to the ceiling, OU reading professor John 

McEneaney has spent the last decade pursuing an unlikely subject - technology. His interest in the 

partnership between reading and computers was sparked as an educator at the elementary level and 

has burgeoned into innovative and important theoretical research. His work to connect literacy and 

technology earned him the Albert J. Kingston Award, presented by the National Reading Conference 

(NRC). The award is given for distinguished service to NRC, the nation's premier literacy research 

organization. McEneaney was nominated for the award for his work to bring the NRC online. 

Full Story... 

When Ron Horwitz retired from teaching and serving the School of Business Administration in 2002, 

he wanted to do something completely different from his former career. So he made a past hobby, 

Bridge, into his work. He served as co-chair for the Compuware Spring 2008 North American Bridge 

Championships, which was held in Detroit March 6-16. 

Full Story... 

While it was cold outside on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2008, the Oakland Center Banquet Room was filled with warm wishes for Art Griggs 

on his retirement. A 30-year employee of the university, Griggs officially retired but serves as a consultant for the Academic Affairs 

Office. Griggs' association with Oakland University began before he was old enough to attend the university. His brother was a 

student and Griggs would come to campus to visit him. Eventually he joined his brother as a student and graduated from OU with a 

bachelor's degree in biology. 

Full Story... 

"Image and Text," the biennial faculty art exhibition, was held at the Oakland University Art Gallery Jan. 12 through Feb. 24. The 

faculty members explored art in their own ways through a variety of mediums, including photography, paintings and digital prints. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University Distinguished Professor and Professor Emeritus of chemistry Paul 

Tomboulian was recognized on Friday, May 9, for his contributions to Oakland County's 

Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC). He received the Frank Wilke LEPC 

Excellence Award, which was created in memory of Wilke, an original member of LEPC who 

died in 2006. Last year, the award was given to General Motors Corporation. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's chapter of Sigma Xi was recently awarded a Certificate of Excellence 

for demonstrating its involvement and vitality. A chapter of the national research society, 

Sigma Xi supports scientific research on campus and aims to get more students involved in 

research in any field. The annual Sigma Xi public lecture will be held Tuesday, April 1 at 4:30 p.m. in 201 Dodge Hall. The lecture is 

the group's largest public lecture of the year. This year, the lecture will be given by Vito Quaranta, professor of cancer biology, 

director of the Vanderbilt Integrative Cancer Biology Center, co-director of the Center for Matrix Biology at the Vanderbilt University 

School of Medicine and a Sigma Xi distinguished lecturer. 

Full Story... 

Mila Padgett, Campus Recreation assistant director of programs, was honored by her colleagues as the 

2008 Outstanding Administrative Professional. Administrative Professionals from around campus 

gathered in the Pioneer Room to recognize Padgett's efforts to support the mission of Oakland 

University. Her colleagues praised her work, acknowledged her leadership and even told some funny 

stories. Padgett was joined at the reception by her husband, Larry, her son and her parents. The AP 

Assembly, a professional organization for administrative-professionals, also honored the outgoing 

president, Michelle Southward, assistant director of the Center for Multicultural Initiatives, for her service 

to the group. 



Full Story... 

The National Academic Advising Association honored Oakland University's Advising Week and three 

advisers during its annual conference in Chicago, Ill., in October. This was the first time OU submitted 

applicants for the NACADA awards, and all four of the submissions were selected to be honored. 

Advising Week earned Outstanding Institutional Advising Program Award for its innovative and exemplary practices resulting in 

improved academic advising services. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University recognized the exceptional work of 30 AP employees with AP Bonus Awards. 

Full Story... 

The School of Education and Human Services presented awards to three Oakland University 

employees for their service to the faculty and staff within the school. The inaugural Above 

and Beyond Service Awards were presented to John Coughlin, senior systems analyst in E- 

Learning and Instructional Support, Eric Condic, manager of library systems at Kresge 

Library and Kristine Condic, associate professor in Kresge Library. 

Full Story... 

Many people who have long commutes were feeling the pinch of rising gas prices. For OU 

Energy Manager Jim Liedel, the gas prices for his 50-mile commute aren't an issue. That's 

because Liedel's Volkswagen Passat runs on biodiesel. Using discarded oil from restaurants, 

Leidel can "home brew" his own fuel. Now, working with a local greenhouse, Leidel is assisting in starting a small biodiesel 

manufacturing facility where others can learn more about he process and the use of the fuel. 

Full Story... 

The Phyllis Law Googasian Award is presented by the Oakland University chapter of the 

American Council on Education Network for Women Leaders to a woman who demonstrates 

extraordinary service to the university community and commitment to the positive growth, 

development and advancement of women at OU. This year, Jean Ann Miller, director of the 

Center for Student Activities and Leadership Development, was selected to receive the 

honor. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's Department of Music, Theatre and Dance welcomed three new members to the dance faculty in the fall, 

including an OU alumnus. 

Full Story... 

Assistant Professor of Occupational Safety and Health and program director Charles McGlothlin was honored by the Michigan 

Safety Conference as the Michigan Safety Professional of the Year. McGlothlin said he is humbled by the honor and said it 

spotlights the good work Oakland University is doing in the emerging field of occupational safety and health. 

Full Story... 

It all started with a class at Oakland University in the 1980s. That led to an independent study between Roy Kotynek, now professor 

emeritus of history, and John Cohassey, CAS '90. This led to shared research, and a lengthy professional relationship. The 

culmination of all of these years of work was released as the book "American Culture Rebels: Avant Garde and Bohemian Artists." 

Full Story... 

Michigan's leading developer of alternative, sustainable and renewable energy sources, NextGen Energy, partnered with Chris 

Kobus, associate professor of engineering, to create an ethanol plant in Michigan. The company made Kobus the head of research, 

as it finds ways to improve ethanol production, and develop a way to make ethanol out of cellulose materials, non-food biomass like 

switchgrass, woodchips and parts of corn plants. 

Full Story... 

Bill Connellan, associate professor of journalism, delivered his last lecture on Thursday, Aug. 14. Once 

the finals are scored and the grades turned in, Connellan began a new chapter of his life. Learning is 

something that Connellan loves to do every day - a passion that started when he was an Oakland 

University student. Connellan came to Oakland University in 1963 to study political science and history. 

He later covered the higher education beat for The Detroit News. Connellan returned to OU in 1970. He 

taught part-time and served in a number of administrative roles in the Office of the President and the 

provost's office before switching to a full-time faculty position in 2000. From 2001-04, Connellan took a 

leave of absence from OU to serve as a senior vice president of the Detroit Metro Convention and 

Visitors Bureau. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University will hosted the 2008 Nanoscale Science and Engineering Conference on Aug. 18. 

The conference established a platform for researchers and entrepreneurs, especially in the fields of 



nanoscale science and engineering, as well as structural DNA, to exchange ideas and promote multidisciplinary, inter-institutional 

partnerships. Conference participants had a chance to acquire knowledge about the most current research and development in 

these fields and to identify collaborators in other institutions. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University President Gary D. Russi was awarded the 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Sunrise Pinnacle Awards 

program, sponsored by the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce. Held Thursday, Oct. 30, the annual program honors the 

area's visionary entrepreneurs, business and civic leaders, educators and exemplary corporate citizens. 

Full Story... 

Members of Oakland University's political science department were in demand during the election season, sharing their expertise on 

politics and campaigns with students and community members. Faculty members participated in numerous activities - from debates 

to discussions - surrounding the elections, as well as responding to media calls from Time Magazine, the Wall Street Journal, USA 

Today, Detroit News, Detroit Free Press and Fox News. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University Assistant Professor of Teacher Development and Educational Studies Ji-Eun Lee received a $1,500 mini-grant 

from the MEEMIC Foundation for the Future of Education. Lee petitioned the foundation to underwrite the cost of developing a 

teaching module which will provide elementary students in grades 3 and 4 with a foundation for learning algebra. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's School of Business Administration appointed Michael Grieves, a noted Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) 

expert and author, to the position of research professor. Grieves, who writes extensively and lectures worldwide on PLM and related 

topics, joined the faculty of the SBA to engage in activities that will foster research collaboration, education and industry interaction 

in the rapidly growing area of PLM. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University hosted "Stem Cell Research: The Science, the Cures and the Law," an informational conference led by Marcia 

Baum, executive director of Michigan Citizens for Stem Cell Research and Cures on Oct. 28. A question and answer session 

featured notable scientists, politicians, and academics followed an hour-long presentation by Baum. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University associate professors of political science David Dulio and Peter Trumbore presented "The Battle for Power: 

Issues, Politics and Strategy in the 2006 and 2008 Elections" at the President's Colloquium on Oct. 27. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University hosted the International Conference on Romanticism in mid-October at the Royal Park Hotel in downtown 

Rochester. 

Full Story... 

The Oakland University School of Business Administration hosted a leadership conference to explore the role of leadership in 

developing competitive advantages in the global marketplace. 

Full Story... 

Faculty in the SBA's Decision and Information Sciences department were ranked among the top in country for both the quality of 

their MIS research and their productivity. 

Full Story... 

Susan Davies Goepp, vice president for Development, Alumni and Community Engagement and executive director of 

the Oakland University Foundation, was honored as part of National Philanthropy Day for 20 years of philanthropic 

work. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University departments and staff members were honored with three Gold Awards during the Council for 

Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District V Conference at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers. 

Full Story... 

David Spencer, executive director of the Oakland University's SmartZone Business Incubator (OU INC), was among panelists who 

participated in the Young Professionals of Rochester's 2009 Economic Update and Forecast panel discussion. 

Full Story... 

"The Economics of Health and Health Care," authored by two professors in the School of Business Administration, is considered a 

leader in its field by educators, researchers, government specialists, physicians and others. 

Full Story... 


Diversity 

In honor of African American History month and Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a celebration was held on Monday, Jan. 21 and ran until 

Feb. 21. The month-long celebration gave students, faculty, staff and the surrounding community an opportunity to learn about 

African-American history and celebrate the culture. The theme was "Reflecting Truth through the Understanding of Our Historical 

Inspirations." 



Full Story... 

Six Oakland University students were honored at the 16th annual Keeper of the Dream 

Awards Celebration on Monday, Jan. 21. The Keeper of the Dream Awards pay tribute to the 

legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for his achievements on behalf of civil rights. Human 

rights activist and entertainer Harry Belafonte was the keynote speaker of the event, which 

recognized students for their efforts to break down cultural stereotypes and promote 

interracial understanding. 

Full Story... 

Women's History Month took place throughout the month of March and Oakland University's 

Gender and Sexuality Center coordinated a variety of events around the theme "Women in Politics." 

Full Story... 

Students and faculty from local universities, as well as community members came together and engage in dialogue about today's 

human diversity issues and concern during the 10 th Annual Diverse Voices Conference March 22 in Oakland University's Varner 

Recital Hall. The conference followed the theme "Critically Reflecting on Diversity Inclusion and Exclusion" and featured guest 

speaker Elizabeth Tisdell from Penn State University. Student speakers represented Oakland University, Davenport University, the 

University of Detroit Mercy and the University of Michigan Dearborn. 

Full Story... 

As part of the global 2008 V-Day campaign to end violence against women, Oakland University's Women's Issues Forum staged 

performances of Eve Ensler's "Vagina Monologues" on March 7 and March 8. 

Full Story... 

In honor of Women's History Month, Oakland University's Student Life Lecture Board hosted feminist author and activist Naomi Wolf 

on Wednesday, April 2. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University welcomed Michael Eric Dyson and his wife, Reverend Marcia Dyson, to 

campus to debate "The State of Black America: Is Bill Cosby Right?" on Feb. 18. The 

Dysons are two of the most influential black leaders in the nation. 

Full Story... 

"Absinthe" magazine and Oakland University co-sponsored the Absinthe Festival of New 

European Film and Writing on May 9 and 10. The festival presented several feature films 

from Europe, a selection of short-films from Europe that screened at the Ann Arbor Film Festival, and short films produced by 

Oakland University students, along with readings by European and Detroit-area writers and translators. 

Full Story... 

The exhibit "Revolutionizing Cultural Identity: Photography and the Changing Face of 

Immigration" opened in March in the OU Art Gallery. This international exhibition, curated by 

Claude Baillargeon, professor of art and art history, brought together eleven artists working 

from a broad range of cultural and conceptual perspectives. All eleven artists, who live either 

in the United States or Canada, are descendants of immigrants from around the world. The 

exhibition focuses on the constant struggle that immigrants and their descendants face 

having to identify with more than one culture. 

Full Story... 

For the second year, Oakland University co-hosted a Michigan Chinese Academic and 

Professional Association Asian (MCAPA) delegation for a one-day symposium on April 15. 

The delegates were in town for the Society of Automotive Engineers Congress in Detroit. They met with local engineering and 

business leaders in a closed session for a portion of the day and then OU faculty presented to the delegation, followed by a panel on 

quality in the auto manufacturing sector, which was open to the public. 

Full Story... 

International students for Oakland University were able to share information about their 

homelands and their customs and cultures with students from Auburn Elementary School in 

Auburn Hills as part of the school's "It's a Small World," diversity night on Feb. 29. OU's 

International Students and Scholars Office< arranged for the students to participate in the 

diversity night through the Learn About Me program. 

Full Story... 

The Oakland University community was invited to the International Welcome Reception in 

September. The event, part of the OU Welcome Week activities, connected the campus 

community with OU's new, current and former international students, as well as celebrated 

the diversity on campus. The event featured international food and music by the Southpaw Isle Trio. 

Full Story... 

OU hosted several events in support of National Coming Out Week, Oct. 6-10. Sponsored by the university's Gender and Sexuality 

Center (GSC), the week began with a remembrance marking the tenth anniversary of Mathew Shepard's tragic killing and concluded 

with a visit from TV personality Charles Pugh. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University showcased Hispanic culture during "Las Ciudades del mundo hispánico, Cities of the Hispanic World," the 2008 



Hispanic Celebration. The events included a "tour" of Hispanic cities, a professional cooking demonstration and a trip to 

Mexicantown. 

Full Story... 

The Women and Gender Studies program at Oakland University hosted its 26th annual film festival in November. The event was 

titled "On Our Way to the White House? Women & Electoral Politics" and focused on how gender impacts the electoral process in 

contemporary American society. 

Full Story... 

Noted actor, producer and human rights activist Danny Glover was been chosen as the keynote speaker for the 17th annual Keeper 

of the Dream celebration on Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, Jan. 19, 2009. Deeply involved with the Vanguard Public 

Foundation based in San Francisco, an organization that strives to eradicate racism and promote civil rights, economic justices, 

gender equality and community empowerment, Glover also is the chairman of the board of TransAfrica Forum, the African-American 

lobbying organization on Africa and the Caribbean. 

Full Story... 

The Oakland University Islamic Studies program hosted the 2008 Muslim film series, which presented films from across the Middle 

East to give viewers fresh perspectives on the Islamic world. 

Full Story... 


Community 

The First Gentleman of Michigan Dan Mulhern spoke about becoming a leader in today's ever changing society during a lecture on 

Thursday, Jan. 24. 

Full Story... 

OU political science students experienced the national election process up close when they 

attended a Town Hall Meeting organized by the John McCain 2008 presidential campaign 

committee at Shotwell-Gustafson Pavilion. Instead of meeting in the classroom, students in 

the Intro to Political Science course, taught by Associate Professor David Dulio, gathered on 

May 7 to hear Republican contender John McCain's remarks about human rights. McCain 

fielded questions from the audience of 700, ranging from troops in Iraq, to his temper and 

fuel economy standards. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University, along with other Michigan schools, has an important role to play in improving the state's economy, according to 

OU President Gary Russi. Russi was a guest on "50 CEO's on the D," a Detroit Renaissance Reports podcast, where he discussed 

what the university is doing to actively engage students in the community in order to stop the state's "brain drain." 

Full Story... 

The 2008 AUTOe conference delivered pragmatic insight into the state of information technologies within the auto industry by the 

thought leaders best equipped to do so - automotive CIOs. The conference was held at Oakland University April 24-25. 

Full Story... 

Best known for her successful defense in a libel suit brought by Holocaust refuter David Irving and her subsequent book, "History on 

Trial," scholar Deborah Lipstadt presented an Oakland University-sponsored talk at the Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan 

Detroit in West Bloomfield on Monday, April 28. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University hosted students from across the country to participate in research with faculty as part of the Research 

Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program funded by the National Science Foundation. 

Full Story... 

Two OU student musicians were featured in 11th Annual David Daniels Young Artists Concert presented on Feb. 10 in the Varner 

Recital Hall. 

Full Story... 

The grounds of Oakland University was the start and historic Meadow Brook Hall was the finish line for 

the inaugural Brooksie Way Half Marathon, Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson announced. 

Patterson made the announcement at Meadow Brook Hall with officials from the Crim Fitness 

Foundation, which co-sponsored the race with Oakland County. Also in attendance were representatives 

from Oakland University, the cities of Rochester and Rochester Hills and the Paint Creek Trailways 

Council. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's School of Nursing (SON) and presenting sponsor William Beaumont Hospitals 

hosted the second annual "Envision Conference, Entrepreneurship in Nursing Leading to Change" on 

Sept. 26, 2008 at the Royal Park Hotel in Rochester. 

Full Story... 

At every home basketball game, representatives from local community organizations are in the stands, cheering the Golden 

Grizzlies to victory. The groups are invited by OU President Gary Russi through the President's Spirit Program. Thirty tickets per 



game, as well as refreshment vouchers, are distributed to groups in the community. The groups share the tickets with employees, 

clients, volunteers or members. Some of the groups who attended games include Hispanic Outreach Services, American Red 

Cross, Habitat for Humanity, HAVEN, the American Cancer Society, the Boy Scouts and YMCA. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University and Upland Hills Ecological Awareness Center hosted the Third Annual Earth Day Expo on April 19 in the 

Oakland Center. The no-cost event offered the community a chance to celebrate Earth Day and learn about healthy alternatives for 

Earth-friendly living. 

Full Story... 

The Third Annual Global Security Forum featureed Doris Tennant, an attorney and pro bono representative of a Guantanamo Bay 

detainee. Through her lecture "Behind the Scenes at Guantanamo Bay: A Lawyer's Story," Tennant sought to raise awareness of 

the detainees who have served for many years without any charges being brought against them. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University co-sponsored and participated in "Living with Autism," a workshop for parents and professionals presented by 

"Metro Parent" magazine. The workshop was held on April 16 at the Troy Hilton. The keynote speaker was Jenny McCarthy, who 

shares her personal story. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's School of Nursing (SON) hosted the 20 th Annual Nightingale Awards for Nursing on Thursday, May 1. The 

program honored nine award recipients and nine runners up for their dedication to the field of nursing. Local 4-WDIV morning news 

anchor Rhonda Walker served as the evening's emcee. 

Full Story... 

There are many lakes and rivers throughout Michigan and Oakland University educated more than 1,500 fifth graders about water 

conservation and protection during the Second Annual Clinton River Water Festival on May 22. Oakland Plus, a non-profit 

organization dedicated to the protection of our water resources, donated $15,000 to help support the Water Festival this year. 

Full Story... 

Humanitarian, nurse extraordinaire and Nobel Peace Prize nominee Baroness Caroline Cox shared her stories and words of hope 

and inspiration amidst tragedy in her presentation, "The Privilege to Serve" at Meadow Brook Theater on May 9. A reception 

followed at Meadow Brook Hall. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's Gear Up/College Day program and the School of Education and Human Services Counseling Department 

completed Gear Up for Life. The program was designed to assist students with life skills in the areas of leadership development, 

conflict resolution, building positive relations and establishing parental support. While the program was for students, parents of the 

students, who came from Oak Park and Pontiac school districts, were also required to participate in the final session. 

Full Story... 

Micah Fialka-Feldman always wanted to go to college, but many assumed he never would. 

Fialka-Feldman has a cognitive impairment which always classified him as aspecial 

education student. After high school, many special education students move on to a basic 

life skills program. Fialka-Feldman wanted more. Through the OPTIONS program, he is 

taking classes and experiencing campus life. Fialka-Feldman was the subject of "Through 

the Same Door: Inclusion Includes College," a documentary about his desire to attend 

college and how that happened. Fialka-Feldman presented it to the campus community on 

March 26. 

Full Story... 

In an effort to spread awareness to the OU community about the hunger that plagues 

millions of people around the world, the St. John Fisher Newman Group held a hunger banquet on Feb. 13. 

Full Story... 

The Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance brings together the traditions of antique and classic automobiles on display at the historic 

Meadow Brook Hall. The 2008 event celebrated General Motors' 100th anniversary, the Model T's 100th anniversary, and featured 

Ferraris, 8-Litre Bentleys, 16-cylinder cars, flying cars, vintage motorcycles with side cars and cars from 1933. While the Concours 

d'Elegance was set for Sunday, Aug. 3, events including a motor tour and auction began earlier that week. 

Full Story... 

Students at Lincoln Middle School face the normal, early teen life issues. And many of the students face the challenges that also 

come along with being underprivileged. Members of OU's Social Work club met with students from the middle school this year to 

provide them with an outlet, a support system and sometimes a little advice. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's Office of Public School Academies and Urban Partnerships hosted its inaugural Building Bridges for the Future: 

PSA Pre-College Summer Camp this summer. The three-night residential camp was supported through OU/PSA's collaboration with 

the University's Department of Pre-College Programs. The goal of the camp was to emphasize the importance of a college 

education to the sixth through eighth graders enrolled at OU charter schools. Camp participants toured the campus and engaged in 

learning activities taught by OU professors and graduate staff in science, chemistry and engineering. Campers were also introduced 

to Chinese culture and language. 

Full Story... 

Meadow Brook Hall went Hollywood, much like the rest of Detroit. The Michigan tax incentive 



for film companies brought a flurry of filming to the state, and Meadow Brook Hall's grand 

scale and Tudor Revival architecture have caught the attention of location scouts. The Hall 

was recently a set location for ABC's TV pilot "The Prince of Motor City" and the upcoming 

movie "Youth In Revolt." 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's Student Life Lecture Board welcomed Kirsten Haglund, Miss America 

2008, on Sept. 16. Haglund, a Farmington Hills native, was crowned Miss American in 

January. Her new title has taken her around the world and she came to Oakland University to share her story. 

Full Story... 

Friday, Aug. 8 was Oakland University night at Rochester's Dancin' in the Street. OU's Images Dance Team, Xpressiv B.T.Z. and 

Cheerleading team performed at the downtown event. 

Full Story... 

When Oakland University students returned to campus this fall, local communities including Rochester, Auburn Hills, Oakland 

Township and Rochester Hills welcomed students with open arms. Mayors or representatives from each of these communities 

presented official resolutions recognizing Oakland University's Welcome Week to President Gary Russi in front of a crowd of nearly 

1,500 during New Student Convocation on Tuesday, Sept. 2. Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson also signed a 

proclamation. 

Full Story... 

OU students were invited to the fourth annual Up 'Til Dawn letter-sending party on Nov. 12 in the Oakland Center Banquet Rooms. 

The program is a student-led initiative dedicated to raising funds for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the premier treatment 

and research center for children with catastrophic illnesses. 

Full Story... 

The business leader frequently described as the Bill Gates of Asia because of the similarities in the story of how he founded a 

software firm in Bangalore in 1981, Narayana Murthy received an honorary degree from the OU School of Business Administration 

during its Dec. 13 commencement ceremony. 

Full Story... 

In support of the College of Arts and Sciences' "Cities" theme, Oakland University's Master of Public Administration (MPA) program 

hosted a panel discussion on Oct. 23. Four local leaders, all alumni of Oakland's MPA program, spoke on current challenges facing 

city management. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University hosted former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright as part of the Varner Vitality 

Series on Oct. 14. The event was sponsored by the Student Life Lecture Board and Academic 

Affairs. Albright was nominated for Secretary of State by President Bill Clinton and unanimously 

confirmed by the United States Senate. Albright was the first female Secretary of State and at the 

time, the highest ranking woman in the history of the United States government. Albright's previous 

credentials include United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations, member of 

Clinton's Cabinet and member of the National Security Council and White House staff member. She 

also serves as president for the Center for National Policy, a research professor of international 

affairs and director of Women in Foreign Service program at Ge orgetown University. 

Full Story... 

Nearly 4,000 runners and walkers made the inaugural Brooksie Way Half Marathon a runaway 

success. The half marathon, as well as a 5K race/walk, began at Oakland University on the corner of 

Walton and Adams and finished at Meadow Brook Hall. The Sunday, Oct. 5, event was sponsored by the Crim Fitness Foundation 

and Oakland County. 

Full Story... 

The OU community welcomed a presentation by Dr. Drew Pinsky, the host of the nationallysyndicated 

radio call-in show, "Loveline," and the star on the VH1 program "Celebrity Rehab 

with Dr. Drew." 

Full Story... 

The OU community was invited to enjoy Lagniappe and The Big, Bright Light Show in 

downtown Rochester, where visitors could take in 500,000 twinkling lights and get "a little 

something extra" from the business community. 

Full Story... 

A two-day business conference on the campus of Oakland University in mid-October brought 

business practitioners and academic leaders from across the country together to answer the 

questions challenging businesses today. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University staff, faculty and students planned a trip to Washington, D.C., to witness 

the historic inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama. 

Full Story... 



OU hosted Campaign Roundup 2008, an event in which area experts explored outcomes of the historic November general election 

and how they will impact a state and nation facing formidable challenges. 

Full Story... 


Partnerships 

A partnership between Oakland University and the University of Botswana made it possible for Cecilia Seema and Kayi Ntinda to 

study at OU during the winter 2008 semester. Seema and Ntinda have been at Oakland University since Jan. 2 attending classes, 

studying and working in the School of Education and Human Services Counseling Center. 

Full Story... 

The City of Rochester, Oakland University's hometown, was recognized as one of the top 

100 places to live in America by Relocate America. This is the tenth year Relocate America 

has compiled the best places to live in the United States, determined by statistics and 

feedback of the people who live and work in these communities. Nominations include data 

about education, employment, economy, crime, parks, recreation and housing. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University and the University of Windsor held the second annual Conference on 

Teaching and Learning on May 12 and 13 at Oakland University. 

Full Story... 

On Thursday, Feb. 7, Oakland University's SmartZone SM Business Incubator (OU INC) announced the opening of the OU INC 

Collaboratory, a unique electronic decision support system environment for group work teams. Collaboratory sessions foster 

collaboration, categorization, prioritization and consensus building among work teams. 

Full Story... 

Studio Art major Carla Butwin showcaseed her work for the first time as a solo artist when 

she took part in the Downtown Rochester Spring Gallery Stroll. Her paintings were displayed 

at Studio One Salon, located at 424 Main Street. During this biannual event, galleries and 

other businesses open their doors for community members to enjoy art and refreshments. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's Fastening and Joining Research Institute (FAJRI) plays an important 

role in protecting U.S. Army troops and rejuvenating Michigan's economy, said speakers 

during the institute's 5th anniversary celebration on Monday. U.S. senator Carl Levin, D- 

Mich., and speakers from Chrysler, DTE Energy and the U.S Army's Tank Automotive 

Research Development and Engineering Center congratulated and thanked the institute for its contributions to the military and to 

industry. 

Full Story... 

Once a week, a group of students take over the kitchen at the Older Persons Commission in Rochester 

and cook up food like vegetarian chili, polenta, apple cobbler, meringues and other tasty treats. The 

students are getting hands-on experience for the class Introduction to Food Science, which looks at the 

basic principles and the chemical and biological properties of food preparation. The lab portion of the 

class is two hours and the students work in groups of two to cook two to three recipes focusing on the 

week's theme, and then they spend the last half hour evaluating and eating their work. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University and Meadow Brook Theatre signed a new operating agreement for the 2008-2009 

production year. The new agreement began July 1, 2008. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University's Pre-College Program is part of the YMCA Education Coalition Partners and was 

awarded the YMCA 2008 Partnership Award. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University partnered with Wayne State University's Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences to allow 

OU undergraduates the opportunity to earn an undergraduate degree in Health Sciences from Oakland University and a graduate 

degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Wayne State University. 

Full Story... 

This June, the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce's (RRCC) board of directors 

gathered for its annual strategic planning session at Oakland University's SmartZone 

Business Incubator (OU INC). The Collaboratory assists local businesses using high-tech 

decision making software that allows each individual to express their ideas, and helps rank 

choices and make decisions based on consensus among the group. An OU INC facilitator 

keeps the meeting on track. 

Full Story... 

The second annual "Tech x 2 Expo = LTU + OU" career fair was held on the Lawrence Tech 

campus on Sept. 30. The event gave OU and LTU students majoring in engineering, computer science and technology the chance 



to meet with some of the region's top employers in those fields. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University, in partnership with the Macomb County Planning and Economic Development Department and the City of 

Sterling Heights, launched the Macomb-Oakland University Incubator. The business incubator is part of a new SmartZone in Sterling 

Heights announced October 15 by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and state and local officials. It is 

estimated that the SmartZone and business incubator will eventually create 600 new jobs in the area. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University and the Max Stern Academic College of Emek Yezreel in Israel created a 

partnership that will provide far-reaching educational and research opportunities for 

undergraduate and graduate students at both institutions. The joint venture will include 

student and faculty exchanges as well as facilitate research opportunities. The partnership is 

the culmination of an April visit to Israel by OU administrators. While there, the group met 

with representatives from the Max Stern Academic College, Kiryat Ono College and the 

Weizmann Institute. They also toured the Holocaust Museum at Yad Vashem and Tel Aviv. 

Full Story... 

Running a school today takes much more than reading, writing and arithmetic. It takes the ability to successfully balance limited 

financial resources with greater demands for high quality student results. Lean thinking can help. 

Full Story... 

An OU partnership helped seventeen individuals enrolled at the Detroit Healthcare Career 

Center walk as the first graduates of the newly created LPN certificate program there. 

Full Story... 

Oakland University officials explored a new transportation option with SMART that would 

enhance the campus community's access to all the Rochester area has to offer. 

Full Story... 

Students, alumni and others helped make the 2008 Rochester Christmas Parade, "Christmas 

Around the World," a memorable experience for thousands who lined Main Street. 

Full Story... 

Officials with Oakland University and the Royal Park Hotel in Rochester announced a 

partnership in which the hotel will serve the university's official conference center, an 

arrangement expected to benefit both organizations and the region as a whole. 

Full Story... 

Twenty-three public and private Michigan colleges and universities, including Oakland 

University, have banded together to launch the Michigan Higher Education Recruitment 

Consortium to share information and resources to attract and retain talented faculty and 

staff. 

Full Story... 


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