Oakland University co-founder Matilda Dodge Wilson once said: “To attempt great things is to expect great things.”
Matilda embodied that spirit throughout her remarkable life. At a time of limited opportunities for women, she supported education as the primary vehicle to individual and community success and prosperity. She served as the country’s first woman lieutenant governor. And alongside her husband, Alfred, she donated their family estate so that it could become something larger than themselves: Oakland University.
Matilda envisioned Oakland becoming a vibrant hub of learning — a place where opportunity would be, in her words, “almost without bounds.”
Nearly seventy years later, that is what Oakland has become — and you are now part of that story.
As we kick off a new academic year, I encourage all of you to make the most of the remarkable opportunities available to you at OU. Take a class outside your comfort zone. Sign up for a hands-on learning opportunity through the OU Pledge. And remember, success in college is not only about earning good grades but also achieving a well-balanced life, full of purpose and connection.
Above all, believe in yourself just as we believe in you.
All of us here at Oakland — our amazing faculty and staff — are committed to championing your success. Whether you need academic support or just a friendly face, we will welcome you with open arms. So never hesitate to ask for help; we are here to make your Oakland experience one of the most rewarding and meaningful times of your life.
In fact, this year you’ll be hearing from more members of the university’s leadership team in these pages about the work we are doing to provide you with the best experiences possible. Much of that work happens behind the scenes, but it shapes your time here in the classroom and on campus. So, we want to ensure you know who we are and what we do.
Always remember that you belong here — not just today, not just this semester, but now and always. Let’s have a great year. Go Grizzlies!