PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE: Welcome to the new academic year

August 31, 2023

I want to welcome you to the beginning of a new academic semester and an exciting new year at Oakland University.

With summer in the rear-view mirror, we’re focusing on doing all that we can to make sure the upcoming academic year is truly memorable and inspiring for the Oakland University community.

We are preparing, once again, for a campus bustling with new and returning students, energy and excitement. And we are committed to offering a unique educational experience built on student success, and an inclusive campus that celebrates our great diversity of people, cultures and ideas.

This fall feels like we have finally moved past the pandemic, although we remain vigilant to any risk to our community’s health and safety. Let’s agree that the efficiencies of virtual-meeting technology should never be a substitute for a thriving educational community – real, authentic and dynamic.

As we return to a full campus after summer break, let’s appreciate the connectedness at the core of our community. And let’s work together to sustain our  culture built on respect and compassion.

In the upcoming weeks, there will be many activities and events for new students to become assimilated to Oakland, and returning students to reconnect with friends, and form new relationships.

The best way to feel a part of the OU community is to be engaged in activities and campus life. From Sept. 5 – Sept.16, please find time to attend at least one of the many events during “Welcome Week.” 

• On Sept. 5, we formally welcome new students to campus at the New Student Convocation, including academic open houses and culminating in a bonfire (8 p.m. at P11 parking lot). 
  
  
• Throughout the new student orientation process, new students are nominated for a Spirit Award for exemplifying the Golden Grizzly Spirit. Award recipients will be named on Sept. 8 at a high-energy ceremony that celebrates OU pride.
  
  
• On September 12, I hope you will join me at 11:30 a.m. at the Elliott Tower for the kickoff of Grizz Fest, a gathering of student organizations, representatives from OU offices, and local businesses.

Of course, our campus community is sustained throughout the year by a dedicated staff and support team. A special thanks to the administrative, maintenance and facilities teams for working tirelessly to maintain one of the most beautiful university campuses in Michigan.

As we move into September and autumn, let’s appreciate this time of reflection and renewal, hope and promise.

And let’s do all we can so Oakland University remains a responsive and engaging campus that plays a transformative role in the lives of students, faculty, staff and the communities we serve.

I look forward to seeing you on campus for an inspiring, productive and remarkable academic year.

Ora

Ora Hirsch Pescovitz, M.D.

President, Oakland University