Stay Golden

Returning to campus, especially for Homecoming, always begins with a comforting sense of nostalgia followed by exciting new discoveries. For me, it starts with something we all probably know like the back of our hand: entering off University Drive, taking the loop past Kresge Library, a pause at Meadow Brook Road to let a student cross and then that left turn into P1. Then I slowly follow someone headed to their car to leave, who suddenly changes direction, leaving me to creep down another row or two to find a parking spot. I get out and there they are … North and South Foundation Hall. I’m home.

Walking the route I’ve taken countless times before, Elliott Tower now proudly pierces the skyline I was familiar with almost 20 years ago. It is a Golden Grizzly beacon that can be seen miles from campus and depending on the time of day, its carillon bells can be heard nearly as far.

Walking toward the Oakland Center (OC), I see an impressive new façade only to be outdone by a breathtaking remodeling of the inside. Before entering though, I notice a modest bronze statue off to the right. Posing with a shovel just as she did when she and Alfred originally broke ground in 1958, stands a lifelike homage to our original benefactor Matilda, pearls and all. She’s as welcoming now as she was in life.

Nothing puts the home in Homecoming, though, like the sounds of the OC. The bustle of it gets me every time. It was the soul of my life as an OU student and where nearly all of my golden stories begin. During Homecoming weekend, the OC and the entire campus come ALIVE!

Students from every graduation class, Golden Grizzly and Pioneer alike, reunite in a sea of black and gold. An expansive list of events are thoughtfully curated for alumni, family, staff and students. These include activities for each school and college, athletics and social gatherings. Every memorable chapter of your OU experience has been reimagined as an engaging opportunity on campus during Homecoming. There is something for everyone and odds are, you’ll leave with more than you expected. I was able to finally thank my Math 012 professor for that extra help, reconnect with classmates that have gone on to lead fascinating careers and celebrate with friends and the families they’ve created since graduation.

Rob Ray and his children with Coach Kampe

What’s my favorite part of Homecoming? Sharing Oakland University with our two children. My wife, Summer, and I found each other on campus and 22 years later, share it with our kids. We stroll along the same sidewalks, sharing stories and reliving memories from all corners of campus. Each is a vivid reminder of the experiences that have guided me to where I am today.

This is where I earned more than an education. This is where I cheer “GO BLACK” and “GO GOLD”. This is where I belong. This is Homecoming.

I hope to see you there! –Rob Ray, SBA ’05