By Rebecca Wyatt Thomas, OU Web Writer

From faculty and staff to students and alumni, many women have shaped Oakland University since its beginning 50 years ago. With the theme “Women Empowered: 50 Years of Moving Oakland University Forward,” OU’s Women’s History Month celebration will offer a number of speakers, forums and presentations to honor the women and promote the continued dedication of OU’s women.

Women’s History month will kick off on Thursday, March 8 from noon-1 p.m. in the Oakland Center Fireside Lounge with a reception for women student organization presidents.

The Oakland University Police Department will offer Rape Aggression Defense Advanced classes on Mondays and Wednesday from 7-11 p.m. on March 5-21. The program will be held in at the Recreation Center. It is free and open to all RAD basic graduates. To register, contact Terry Ross, OU police sergeant, at (248) 370-3331 or ross@oakland.edu.

OU’s history started with one woman — Matilda Wilson, who donated her land and $1 million to start Oakland University. Student Laura Riggs will present research about Wilson on Friday, March 23 from noon to 1 p.m. in the Oakland Center Fireside Lounge.

Alumna Cheryl Angelelli is a Paralympic swimmer who has competed in a number of world and Paralympic competitions, winning a number of medals. Angelelli had her story turned into a documentary, “Untold Dreams,” and she will share the details of her journey on Friday, March 30 from noon-1 p.m. in the Oakland Center Fireside Lounge.

For a complete list of the Women’s History Month activities, view the “Women Empowered” calendar or events.

The Women’s History Month activities are coordinated by the Gender and Sexuality Center, which serves as a resource center for both women and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning community. For more information on the events or the GSC, call (248) 370-4333 or e-mail jbauttir@oakland.edu.