October 29, 2020
Oakland University President Ora Hirsch Pescovitz, M.D., delivered the 2020 State of the University Address virtually on Thursday, Oct. 29 from Meadow Brook Theatre on the OU campus.
During this year’s Address, President Pescovitz spoke about the courage and compassion shown by the OU community throughout the COVID-19 crisis. She also looked back on key moments and accomplishments over the past 12 months, as well as the university’s plans for the upcoming year.
“Since last October’s State of the University Address, we have made measurable progress toward our strategic goals,” Pescovitz said. “Because of the pandemic, we were uncertain about the impact on student enrollment and retention.
“Whereas enrollment is down as much as 17 percent at some community colleges and is significantly lower at many state public universities, we are pleased with our summer and fall enrollment figures. Enrollment for both summer terms was up, and this fall there was only a minimal decrease in the number of students, placing Oakland among universities with the smallest change, while the total number of credit hours was down slightly by 2.5 percent.”
Other topics included: the Grizzlies Engagement, Action and Thoughtfulness (GrEAT) recognition program; the changing landscape of higher education; building a diverse, equitable and inclusive campus; the Golden Grizzlies Graduate program; the “Strive for 45” campaign; recent changes to the university’s leadership team; “Grizzlies Protect Grizzlies: Healthy Together;” the Grizzlies Health Squad; and the “Reimagining OU” initiative.
“There have been many lessons this year, perhaps the most striking is that Oakland University is a strong, vibrant, caring community of remarkably dedicated people,” Pescovitz said. “This year, we have persevered because we realize the power of caring for one another. In my view, the state of our university can be summed up as compassionate and thriving.”
To watch this year’s State of the University Address, visit YouTube.com.