The Office of the President works to ensure that the university's vision and mission are carried out on a daily basis. The office includes members of events, communication and administration teams.
President
204 Wilson Hall
Ora Hirsch Pescovitz
(248) 370-3500
president@oakland.edu
As the Chief Executive Officer the President has overall responsibility for the university. The President provides leadership and oversight for all aspects of the university, including academics, finance, planning, student affairs and enrollment management, advancement, athletics, government and community relations and other key areas. The Provost, vice presidents, and several other staff members report to the President. The President works closely with the Provost and vice presidents to ensure that the strategic direction and policies of the university are aligned with its mission. The President reports to the Board of Trustees and works with the Board in establishing policies to guide the institution.
Joshua D. Merchant
Chief of Staff
(248) 370-4287
joshuamerchant@oakland.edu
The chief of staff serves as the senior advisor to the President and is responsible for recommending policies and practices and other matters to the President that promote the excellence and success of the university. He oversees the university’s strategic plan and builds collaborative relationships across the entire OU community to advance the university’s mission, vision and strategic goals. The Chief of Staff also provides leadership and oversight for the Office of the President, University Human Resources, and University Technology Services.
Frank Provenzano
Director of Presidential Communications & Initiatives
(248) 370-3645
fprovenzano@oakland.edu
The Director of Presidential Communications and Initiatives manages a range of internal/external executive communications, and develops and implements key presidential initiatives to support the university's strategic goals.
Adrienne Bass
Executive Associate to the President
(248) 370-3502
bass@oakland.edu
Susan Dawson
Director of Executive Events
(248) 370-4908
sjdawson@oakland.edu
The Director of Executive Events is responsible for planning, promoting, managing and executing the President's signature events, cultivation meetings, and special meetings and events for the Board of Trustees that advance the mission and vision of Oakland University.
Renee M. Kazirut
Executive Office Assistant
(248) 370-3503
dembeck@oakland.edu
Patricia Gillespie
Event Manager
(248) 370-2053
gillesp2@oakland.edu
The Event Manager is responsible for the planning and execution of larger signature events within the University Executive Events Portfolio that advance the mission and vision of Oakland University.
Vernita Y. Parker
Executive Secretary
(248) 370-3501
vylong@oakland.edu