The Oakland University neighborhood values community, and service.

Community

Walk around the neighborhood on a summer day. You'll see children playing, people walking dogs, gardeners busy planting. We have young families with children, empty nesters, retired couples, and singles. We have a mix of races and national origins. The neighborhood is as diverse as Oakland University.

Community is more than just a word. It means helping neighbors. Looking out for each others' children. Pitching in.

Many Americans yearn for real community. Well, it's right here. We know what it's worth.

Service

All of us serve Oakland University. Some of us teach and do research. Others keep the university's wheels turning. In one way or another, we are all Grizzlies (and some of us are quite grizzled!).

Some residents have been with the university for decades. The university is more than just an employer for many people. It is an integral part of our lives. We are grateful to be a part of something worthwhile.

Collectively, we have helped thousands of students shape their own lives. They've become engineers, writers, managers, actors, and nurses, as well as voters, parents, citizens, and - yes - neighbors. Our students are creating the future. In the end, that's why Oakland University and the OU neighborhood are here. Some of us keep in touch with alumni, and we know how they are faring in the world.

Many of us also serve the local community. We are active in churches, local government, sports, environmental groups, ... You name it, and there's a good chance that someone in the neighborhood is participating.