In a testament to the power of shared values and mutual support, Oakland University and the Oakland University Credit Union (OUCU) have come together in a partnership that epitomizes the spirit of community and philanthropy. The culmination of this collaboration is the newly renamed Oakland University Credit Union O’rena, an athletic arena that embodies the institution's commitment to fostering growth and opportunity for both students and the community.
A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME: A STRONGER BOND
The roots of this enduring partnership trace back to 1958 when the Credit Union first established its presence on campus as the Michigan State University Federal Credit Union. In 2013, this partnership evolved further with the establishment of the Oakland University Credit Union trade name, coinciding with the addition of the Credit Union branch in the university's Oakland Center. During this time another branch, located near the university on Five Points Drive, also underwent a rebranding as OUCU.
Over the span of 65 years, this partnership has grown exponentially, with the Credit Union investing over $8.6 million in university programs, scholarships and initiatives. This substantial support has enabled a myriad of programs that enrich the university experience and empower students to achieve their aspirations.
“OUCU has invested in impactful programs that have helped advance the university and our students,” said Michael Westfall, vice president of university advancement. “They have addressed and filled in a lot of gaps for us. Every student at OU has benefited from their philanthropic commitment and vision.”
A COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION AND BEYOND
Oakland University Credit Union’s commitment to philanthropy has been transformative across campus and impactful in the lives of our many students through:
- Student Support: Since 2013, a generous annual commitment from OUCU has played a pivotal role in funding an endowed student scholarship, the Dean’s Choice grant program and other initiatives that drive student achievement.
- Financial Literacy Education: The partnership extends
to the classroom through the Credit Union's involvement
with the ACHIEVE program in the OU School of Business Administration. Workshops have become an integral part of the curriculum, providing students with essential financial skills through experiential learning opportunities. - Community Engagement: The Credit Union’s sponsorship of events like the Oakland University Keeper of the Dream Scholarship Awards celebration and the Michigan Climate Summit reflects OUCU’s dedication to promoting diversity, environmental awareness and community dialogue.
- Enabling Global Opportunities: With a groundbreaking $1 million investment, the Credit Union has paved the way for students to engage in international educational experiences. By alleviating financial barriers, OUCU has transformed the lives of countless students, making study abroad opportunities accessible to all.
A CATALYST FOR GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY
One of the most remarkable milestones of this partnership is the $5 million investment in the university’s sports programs through its 10-year naming rights agreement. The newly named OU Credit Union O’rena builds on the Credit Union’s long-standing partnership with athletics and symbolizes the unity of the university and its financial partner.
Furthermore, OUCU’s recent $1 million contribution has laid the foundation for the OU Center for Environmental Sustainability and Ethics. This initiative underscores the credit union's dedication to responsible sustainability practices and aligns with the prestigious Living Building Challenge certification program.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Founded in 1937 by Michigan State University faculty and staff, the Credit Union has grown to more than 338,000 members, with $7.7 billion in assets, and more than 1,100 employees – making them the 42nd largest credit union in the country, and the second largest in the state of Michigan.
April M. Clobes, President and CEO of Oakland University Credit Union, is not only a driving force behind the OU/OUCU partnership but is also a personal donor. Her dedication has left an indelible mark on the university's initiatives and programs.
Clobes served in an advisory capacity for the “Aspire. Advance. Achieve.” campaign. The Credit Union also sponsored the public launch celebration for the campaign that is poised to raise $150 million by 2024.
The partnership has positively impacted the Credit Union with increased visibility to OU students, faculty and staff who trust OUCU for their financial services and to those that support student education, entrepreneurship and recreational actives.
"Education offers the knowledge and skills to provide for a successful and bright future," said Clobes. “We are proud of our history with Oakland University and to join with the University
as they prepare future generations for the opportunities and challenges ahead.”
In the heart of the Oakland University campus, the partnership between Oakland University and the Oakland University Credit Union stands as a testament to the impact that can be achieved when education and philanthropy converge. As these two entities continue to collaborate, they shape a future where education, opportunity and community support thrive in harmonious unity.
January 11, 2024
By Catherine Ticer
