Leading to a Sustainable Future

Thanks to a groundbreaking $1 million gift from Oakland University Credit Union
(OUCU), Oakland University is poised to take major steps in responsible sustainability practices. This generous contribution sets the stage for the establishment of the OU Center for Environmental Sustainability and Ethics, the appointment of a distinguished director and the eventual development of a living building concept that aligns with the international Living Building Challenge certification program.

This transformative gift, however, represents more than just financial support. It serves as a resounding vote of confidence from OUCU, solidifying their dedication to preserving global resources and championing sustainability initiatives.

"We firmly believe in sustainability principles and are proud supporters of our university,” said April Clobes, president and CEO of OU Credit Union. “Together, we can forge a sustainable society and planet through education, research and collaborative efforts."

"We deeply appreciate Oakland University Credit Union's ongoing generosity and their visionary gift, which provides crucial funding to expand our sustainability endeavors,” remarked OU President Ora Hirsch Pescovitz, commenting on the philanthropic milestone. “As responsible stewards of our resources, we strive to develop thriving communities that offer economic opportunities and an exceptional quality of life for all."

To propel this ambitious vision forward, the immediate plan involves recruiting a director of sustainability for Oakland University. With the expertise and coordination provided by this new leadership position, campus-wide sustainability efforts will be streamlined, allowing for measurable progress and potential accreditation from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability. This comprehensive campus sustainability rating system will further solidify Oakland University's commitment to environmental responsibility.

With faculty, staff, students and the facilities management team working hand in hand under the director's guidance, the next step will be to commission a schematic design for a living building, through a carefully crafted request for proposal (RFP). Upon conceptualization, fundraising initiatives will commence, subject to approval by the OU Board of Trustees.

The Living Building Challenge, with its seven performance categories — encompassing place, water, energy, health and happiness, materials, equity and beauty — will guide the construction of this visionary project upon concept approval. The university's ultimate goal is to create a building that generates more energy than it consumes throughout its lifespan — a true testament to Oakland University's commitment to environmental stewardship.

Funding opportunities will include a building fund, an endowment to sustain the living building and an endowment to support the director of sustainability position.

“Together, we can forge a sustainable society and planet through education, research and collaborative efforts."

Michael Westfall, vice president of University Advancement, has been at the forefront of this effort, aiming to establish the living building as a symbol of regenerative architecture and a catalyst for community engagement, curriculum development and groundbreaking research. He hopes OU’s efforts will ignite a wider movement for conscientious sustainability within other organizations and communities.

“Universities play a pivotal role in shaping the future. By embracing sustainable practices, they can effectively reduce their environmental impact and inspire the next generation of leaders,” said Westfall. "Oakland University strives to model sustainable practices, instilling in our students a profound sense of environmental responsibility as they prepare to tackle the challenges of sustainability in their future careers."