In the heart of Oakland University's vibrant campus, difficult and often emotional topics are being discussed through an initiative designed to shape the future of public discourse and civic engagement. The Dennis Muchmore Public Policy Series, generously created by Oakland University board of trustees chair Robert (Bobby) Schostak and his wife, Nancy, is poised to become a pivotal platform for dialogue on critical issues facing not just the university community, but the region, state and nation.
The series, which launched in September featuring former Michigan governors James Blanchard and Rick Snyder, is named in honor of Dennis Muchmore, OU Trustee and a distinguished public policy professional with a remarkable career spanning over four decades. Muchmore, currently serving as the co-leader of the Government Relations and Regulatory Practice at Honigman, LLP, has held influential governmental positions, including serving as the chief of staff for former Michigan Governor Rick Snyder. His unwavering commitment to the betterment of Michigan and his dedication to civil discourse have left an indelible mark on the state's political landscape.
Recently, the Schostaks recognized the opportunity to create something truly meaningful in honor of their friend. "I saw this opportunity to support something that I think is important in today's society, and I have a lot of respect for Dr. Dulio, and what he is trying to accomplish with the Center for Civic Engagement. And I have a lot of respect for Dennis Muchmore, one of my friends and mentors in the political world," said Bobby Schostak, describing his motivation for the gift.
"The greatest gift one can give is to recognize something other than yourself and to search for something that's meaningful to you that you think could positively impact others.”
Schostak is CEO of MadDog Venture Capital and general partner/fund manager of MadDog Venture Capital Fund I, LP. For more than 35 years, he has served in a variety of leadership roles in his family’s commercial and real estate business Schostak Brothers & Company. The family also operates the largest privately held franchised restaurant company in Michigan. After seven years serving in the states’ Republican Party leadership as chairman and finance chairman, he formed Templar Baker Group, providing strategic political consulting, campaign management and fundraising strategy.
Schostak holds a bachelor’s degree in general studies from OU. In 2007 he received the Distinguished Alumni Spirit Award for his exemplary volunteer service to the university. He established the Schostak Family Foundation Endowed Fund to support the Judaic Studies program at OU and provides scholarship support to students of Oakland University’s William Beaumont School of Medicine. Bobby and Nancy recently dedicated a new conference room in East Wilson Hall and are active supporters of several other university initiatives. The trustee has served on the College of Arts and Sciences advisory board, the president’s campaign council and is a past member of the OU Foundation board.
As an alumnus, he takes pride in his association with the university and its commitment to academic excellence. He credits his education at Oakland University with not only laying the foundation for his successful career but also providing the tools for him to become a better communicator. He believes in the power of listening and finding common ground – qualities that are crucial in today's polarized world.
“Bobby was involved early on as a young graduate on the school of business advisory board. He is a role model for alumni engagement,” says Michael Westfall, vice president for University Advancement. “He is a thoughtful, measured leader who always listens to both sides of an issue, debate or argument. His only agenda has been the advancement of the university. He has risen to the occasion and done a great job.”
For Schostak, the Dennis Muchmore Public Policy Series is not just a tribute to his friend and mentor, Dennis Muchmore; it's an opportunity to bridge the gap in political discourse. He envisions a platform where people come together not to win or lose but
to find solutions that benefit everyone. "We're not looking for winners and losers; we're looking for winners and winners,” says Schostak.
David Dulio, distinguished professor of political science and director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Oakland University, expresses profound gratitude for the Schostaks' generous gift. He hopes the series will play a significant role in advancing the center's mission to make Oakland University known as a "convener of conversations" on issues of public importance. Dulio believes that the Muchmore Public Policy Series will elevate their efforts to a new level by featuring one or two events annually, with speakers or panel discussions focusing on critical issues affecting the region, state or nation.
The existence of the Center for Civic Engagement is rooted in the recognition that civil discourse is essential for a healthy democracy. The polarization observed during the 2016 election cycle served as a catalyst for its creation. The center's goal is not only to convene conversations about important public issues but also to do so in a civil, respectful, deliberate and productive manner.
The Dennis Muchmore Public Policy Series promises to be a beacon of hope in a world often overshadowed by partisan divides, offering a platform for meaningful discussions and constructive solutions.
"The greatest gift one can give is to recognize something other than yourself and to search for something that's meaningful to you that you think could positively impact others,” says Schostak.
January 11, 2024
By Catherine Ticer
