By Kelly Smith, OU Writer

In honor of Vicente Fox Quesada, President of Mexico, and Mexico’s rich culture and history, Oakland University has established the Vicente Fox Quesada Endowed Scholarship Fund.

The scholarship will provide annual cash awards to OU students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees, continuing education opportunities, international study or cross-cultural opportunities in Mexico or the United States.

DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund, MASCO Corporation, Collins & Aikman Corporation, ArvinMeritor, Butzel Long, Delphi Corporation, Energy Conversion Devices – Uni-Solar Ovonic, Excel Technical Services, Ford Motor Company, Herman Miller Mexico S.A. de C.V. and Valeo contributed to the endowed scholarship fund, which will continue to grow and serve OU students for many years to come.  

“Oakland University is proactive in making sure students receive opportunities that allow them to become better world citizens,” said Gary Russi, president of Oakland University. “The benefits of international study are incredible. Students gain a different perspective on the world when it’s seen from another country.”

Students may use the scholarship awards for undergraduate or graduate course fees; tuition, books, airfare or other costs associated with study abroad opportunities; and for fees associated with continuing education classes.

A selection committee will choose recipients based on the following eligibility:

• Applicants must demonstrate a strong desire to acquire knowledge of Mexican culture and history, Mexican-American and other cross-cultural relations, languages, and international relations or business.
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  Applicants may be full-time or part-time undergraduate or graduate student and must be enrolled at and in good standing with Oakland University.


• Applicants for continuing education assistance must demonstrate how continuing education courses at OU will assist them in their personal and/or professional career development.

Special consideration will be given to applicants who demonstrate a potential for furthering Mexican-American relationships and/or cross-cultural understanding.   

The fund commemorates the visit of President Fox and First Lady Martha Sahagún de Fox to OU’s campus Friday, June 18. The event will feature an address by President Fox, musical performances and an official welcome by Russi.