OUAA Board of Directors

Mary Jo Ahern, CAS 1963

Humam Alwan, SECS 2020, 2019

Ashley Chambers, SHS 2013

Chiara Clayton, CAS 1998

Brett Geschke, CAS 2010

Renique Kersh, CAS 1999

Mike Lerchenfeldt, SEHS 2008

Leonard Magro, SECS 2001

Judy Pritchett, SEHS 2002, 1997, 1994, CAS 1988

Tim Shanahan, SEHS 1974 and CAS 1972

Scott Shermetaro, SECS 2015

Chris Van Dan Elzen, SECS 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994

Kaniqua Welch, CAS 2004

Emeriti Board Members

Beth Benson, SBA 1981
Manager, VP Office-Service Operations (retired)
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

Joseph Gardella, Jr, CAS 1977
John and Frances Larkin Professor of Chemistry
University at Buffalo, SUNY

Julie Granthen, SBA 1987, CAS 1981
Economics Lecturer, Oakland University

ELEVATE: The Board will prioritize its role in enhancing the reputation of OU, thereby increasing impact and visibility of the board.

• We will actively and visibly represent the OUAA and Oakland University through our advocacy and participation.
• We will champion student recruitment and retention efforts.
• We will promote major university functions.
• We will prioritize information collection and share information with others.

ENGAGE: The Board will prioritize its role in fostering a sense of pride in OU by engaging current and future alumni, faculty, staff and university administration.

• We will lead by example to advocate for alumni participation in university activities.
• We will be actively involved with programs and initiatives in our “academic units” (schools and colleges) and other organizations and departments (e.g., Greek organizations, career services and athletics).
• We will expand our influence beyond Metro Detroit.

EMPOWER: The Board will prioritize its role in providing support for students, creating opportunities for networking and connecting with current and future alumni.

• We will promote and participate in initiatives which provide opportunities for interaction with students, recent grads, and other alumni.
• We will support philanthropic and revenue-generating efforts that impact the student experience.

EVOLVE: The Board will be forward thinking, innovative and dynamic, ensuring that the work of the Board evolves as the institution and world around us evolves.

• We will annually review and reaffirm our strategic initiatives, adjusting where appropriate.
• We will prioritize appreciation and celebration of OU’s history, while also blending past tradition with future progress.
• We will prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion.