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BALLIN’ BILOUS Andriy Bilous evades University of Michigan defenders during the Welcome Back & Staff/Faculty Appreciation game.
PHOTO BY AVA WEBB
Bright beginnings: Students celebrate academic year’s start at New Student Welcome
CAEL TANNER
Features Editor
Warm, sunny weather heralded the start of the Fall 2025 semester at the annual OU New Student Welcome, held Sept. 2 at the Elliott Tower. Incoming freshmen, transfer, graduate and international students arrived around noon for a walking clap-in from faculty and staff volunteers before attending other events, including academic showcases by major, campus tours, and a party complete with lawn games and a DJ.
Designed to ease incoming students into campus life, New Student Welcome has been a vital part of OU Welcome Week since the first new student welcome in 1959. “Everyone has been so nice,” said Lillian Balog, a freshman majoring in Studio Arts, acknowledging an optimistic feeling among incoming students at the event. “Instead of, like, the whole ‘scary first week of college’ experience that some people have gone through, it’s very heartwarming.”
The event’s layout spanned the broad swath of central campus. Student-run booths on behalf of the Office for Student Involvement (OSI) and Student Activity Fund Assessment Committee (SAFAC) lined the tower courtyard with information on clubs and organizations. Kresge Library hosted an open house, offering a variety of library information as well as news of an entirely new collection.
“Our shirts this year say ‘You Belong,’ and I think that when staff are able to get involved in things like this, they feel like they belong too,” Beth Wallis, Associate Dean of University Libraries, said. “It really helps everybody feel like they’re a vital part of the OU community. If everybody on campus becomes a welcoming face for those kinds of questions, all the students benefit from that.”
Students also engaged in campus tours, played ladder ball and cornhole, and enjoyed music from a live DJ. Volunteers operated information booths for new students adjusting to their surroundings, while student support offices opened that afternoon for those with additional questions.
“It definitely sets the tone [for the new academic year],” said Hailey Monroe, a volunteer at an information booth in front of the Oakland Center. “It gets them excited, but I think working these events also gives us an opportunity to give them a more one-on-one, warm experience to know that staff and faculty are here to help them. We’re here not just to get them excited – we want them to succeed.”
Steve Grain, an information booth volunteer who also works at the Academic Success Center, mentioned students have come to him with questions both before and during the event that indicate a desire for preparedness as classes begin. “It’s interesting, I’ve already had a few students come into my office and ask some more nuanced questions,” Grain said. “I was like, cool, they’re
already getting ready for the semester. There is a lot of good energy.”
The relaxed, fun atmosphere of the event stood out to several attendees. “I just wanted to get involved with school in my first year,” Jacob Bolin, a freshman majoring in Mechanical Engineering, said. “The casual vibe makes it more welcoming to me.”
Dennis Koval, a new student majoring in Communications, compared the event to previous new student welcomes he had attended. “I’ve been to [welcomes] before, you know, they’re usually sort of like a massive stadium, all the staff and faculty dressed in caps and gowns… This was a lot lower key,” he said. “Exciting, but comfortable.”
“It definitely feels a lot more personal.” Koval said. “I think it’s good to have some sort of introduction to the school year. It’s a lot easier than just jumping right into classes.”
Each year, New Student Welcome provides new students an opportunity to both familiarize themselves with campus and classes as well as address the challenges of the academic year bolstered by support from staff, faculty, and each other.
“I always say get involved,” Monroe said. “Whether it’s an on-campus job, a club, some kind of team, that’s always my first piece of advice to new students. You’re going to network, make friends, and more opportunities will just come to you by being involved.”
OUSC Kicks Off the Semester with ‘Eats and Beats’
SARAH WASIELEWSKI Arts Reporter
On the last day before classes started, Oakland University Student Congress (OUSC) hosted their annual Eats and Beats under Elliott Tower. Running from 6-9 p.m. on Tuesday evening, the event provided an opportunity for freshmen to mingle with current students and have one final fling before hitting the books.
Little Donut Factory parked their food truck across from the Rec Center, just down the hill from Elliott
Tower, and all evening students lined up for free cider slushies and mini donuts. The Housing Office lended OUSC bubbles for the students to play bubble soccer at the event, and on top of the hill students careened around wildly. By Eliott Tower students could pick up a free bottled soda, sit by the plaza and vibe to the music or play cornhole with their friends.
Of course, the main attraction was the DJ from WXOU stationed under Elliott Tower, providing the beats for the night. WXOU’s music was like a homing call for the students, drawing them to the tower as they
passed by. Within a few minutes of the event’s start, students were dancing together around Elliott Tower.
For those interested, WXOU had a table of free swag and were happy to provide information about the student run radio station. Throughout Welcome Week and the school semester, WXOU provides music for a variety of events.
Unlike last year, the photo opportunity was placed in the center of the plaza by the splash pad.
“This year I wanted to choose a more centralized location that is a bit easier to find,” OUSC President Marcus Johnson said.
OUSC decided to remove the bonfire and replaced it with a photo area with a large mirror that students could take a picture in. Previously, the photo area was located further away, but Marcus’s goal was to make the event more central and accessible for the students.
“This is the last day before classes start. I think it kind of helps give people a last hurrah for summer as they prepare for class,” Johnson said. “I want to give everyone that chance to get connected to campus and build roots here. I think it is great for campus spirit, student morale and overall fun.”
Free pizza arrived at 7 p.m. and students eagerly gathered around. Campus spirit was high, as all students prepared to start the new semester on Wednesday morning. Welcome activities and events are not over though. Be sure to check MySail for all upcoming campus events.
To become involved with Student Congress, reach out to ousc@oakland.edu. For other events hosted by OUSC, check out their Instagram page @ouscofficial for updates.
Social @ the Circle: WXOU hosts Welcome Week block party
MALLORY WALIGORA
Content Editor
On Sept. 4, WXOU held its annual Social @ the Circle – a block party that encourages on-campus students to participate in Welcome Week festivities. The event was stationed at the “circle” on campus –the area between Hamlin and Vandenberg Hall. The circle is the perfect location for students living on campus nearby, serving as a meeting place between different dorms.
Throughout the night, students could play lawn games, listen to the DJ and mingle with fellow students. WXOU volunteers also handed out snacks throughout the night, including popcorn and cotton candy.
“My favorite part of the event is the food, because I love cotton candy and popcorn and also the music. I’m having a good time,” Freshman Autumn Franc said.
Franc talked about the wide variety of people she had met that night and the importance of social events during Welcome Week.
“It gets people out of their shell. I talked to a bunch of people that I probably wouldn’t have talked to otherwise,” Franc said.
Events Director Joey Zieman organized the event. From its initial planning stages in the summer, seeing the event come together was a major accomplishment.
“This event was a while in the making throughout the summer, and we’re really proud of how the event turned out,” Zieman said. “’I’m very proud of how
it’s turned out, as I’ve gotten many compliments about the event.”
For Zieman, the highlight of the event was seeing the lively dancing and social atmosphere of the night.
“Obviously, Social @ the Circle is a big dancey event, but I love seeing all the people, whether it’s a line dance or they’re just waving their flashlight,” Zieman said. “I think that’s a great part of the night.”
Zieman emphasized the importance of campus events providing a necessary balance between school and fun, contributing to a well-rounded college experience.
“It’s important to find some kind of social aspect of life. At school and college, you’re here for your classes, but some elements of these social events
are great. You need a good balance between fun and work,” Zieman said.
Maya Kirksey, general manager of WXOU, had similar sentiments about the night.
“It’s a really, really good turnout. We’re really happy with it. We couldn’t have asked for better attendees,” Kirksey said.
Kirksey highlighted the importance of events like this for the OU community.
“It really gets commuters and on-campus students to come and see what we’re about. Our job is to give back and use some of your tuition money to give cool stuff to you. And so it’s a really good time, and we’re really happy to do it,” Kirksey said.
Kirksey also encouraged students to get involved with WXOU.
“The radio provides really good resources and connections for students who are looking to go into broadcasting. We show people how to do things that they never thought they would. Broadcasting, event planning, DJing – all the works,” Kirksey said.
Oakland University’s Welcome Week runs Sept. 2 through Sept. 13, so there’s still time to get involved with Welcome Week festivities. For more information about how to get involved on campus this semester, check out GrizzOrgs or the university’s events calendar.
For future events by WXOU, follow its Instagram and GrizzOrgs. WXOU has opportunities for student involvement, including DJing, volunteering at events and hosting live shows.
PHOTO BY MATTHEW VIGELIUS
PHOTO BY ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
600 students attend the CMI Welcome Back BBQ
ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
Campus Editor
Neither rain nor wind stopped approximately 600 students from kicking off the Fall semester with music and burgers at the CMI Welcome Back BBQ. Under the Oakland Center’s pavilion, the Center for Multicultural Initiatives (CMI) and the Association of Black Students (ABS) hosted their first event of the semester to bring the Oakland University community together.
“I was a little anxious, since it’s a rainy day, but it actually turned out a lot better than I thought,” Tyliah Weathersby, ABS vice president, said. “The energy is really great, everyone looks like they’re having a good time, and that always makes me want to have a good time.”
Empty trays of cornbread, burgers and pasta after an afternoon of dancing attested to the enthusiasm of returning and new students on Sept. 3. CMI Senior Director, Omar Brown-El, characterized the event as an “extreme success, even though we had to pivot because of the rain.”
“We don’t think we lost much in terms of participation or just vibe and energy of the event,” Brown-El said. “This is the time for us to kind of, you know, get our synergy together in terms of a family environment, setting a tone for the academic year, knowing that we have a long stretch ahead of us for the fall semester, 15 weeks, and to get off to a good start.”
The BBQ had been cooking since June, when the CMI hosted the Student Leadership Retreat, where leaders of student organizations planned for the Fall.
“We know that this event is like ‘the one’ event, that it’s the first day of school, so it’s top priority,” Weathersby said. “When we [went] to the CMI retreat, we talked to Mr. Brown-El, we talked to Anthony and tried to get things together that way. We broke up the task of what they expected from us and then what they were going to do as well.”
The CMI Director explained that the summer retreat was part of the office’s efforts to expand the reach and impact on students as they return to campus.
“We’ve had some successes in regards to that, by working with some of the student organizations over the summer to help sort of make the connection, bridge the gap between our office and what student organizations are doing,” Brown-El said. “This is not only in terms of their programming, but also academic excellence and just well-being, mentally, physically, emotionally.”
Now a tradition in OU, the BBQ is one of many important milestones achieved by ABS at the university. The group, founded in 1968, not only helped create the CMI but also led campus peace marches in 2015.
“We honor and recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day today, because of the Association of Black Students and the protests that we put on,” Weathersby said. “We maintain these values a lot by really just listening to our students, having general body meetings monthly, allowing them to tell us our grievances and things they enjoy about campus.”
From financial literacy events to career readiness panels, ABS has planned a semester full of opportunities for students to get involved with student organizations and build networks that can advance their careers.
“We are collaborating with the brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated, and we are doing a Back-to-School Survival Guide event for all students,” Weathersby said. “We will have advice for students to help them prepare themselves for this upcoming school year. We’ll be having five to six panelists, as well as alumni, current students and school leaders.”
Also coordinating a semester full of events, the CMI seeks to support students throughout the year.
“As the students are expressing [interest] in spaces like ours, then that gives us some opportunity to position ourselves for additional support that can have a greater impact,” Brown-El said. “The best way to support our office is to continue being champions for global perspective, diverse thoughts, being champions for inclusiveness and belonging, that helps what we do in our office.”
RLA ‘Bond Fire’ connects first-year and returning students
CHELSEA BOSSERT Editor-in-Chief
Students during move-in weekend were treated to a variety of activities that helped acclimate them to Oakland University. Some of these events included Live Band Karaoke and a Housing Barbecue. Yet, the event which brought new and returning students together in an effective and engaging way, was the Residence Life Association’s “Bond Fire.”
On Labor Day, while the rest of the world relaxed after a day off from work, the RLA stayed busy and provided free s’mores and much-needed camaraderie.
As well as sweet treats being one of the main focal points, the RLA brought a loudspeaker which upped the energy and provided an outlet for students to express themselves and bond through line dancing.
Connections you make during your first days of college are incredibly important to these first-years. Some of them did not even know where the event was before they saw a crowd of people walking to the bonfire pit.
“I was definitely scared when I first got here but I think this is a really fun idea, and it’s allowed me to meet a lot of different people, even just on the way here,” Makayla Horton, a first-year psychology student, said.
The reception to the event was positive, especially among first years, who have slowly but surely come out of their shells and cemented themselves as members of the OU Housing community.
“I think it’s really fun and a great way to meet new people, especially for people who are really anxious to walk to new people — like me. It kind of forces you to be social,” Desiree Williams, a firstyear elementary education student, said.
One event-goer even started cooking up grill items on a small barbecue. His goal was to sell items to friends to raise money for the OU Pool club, also known as Grizz Balls.
“I love that [first-years] are all showing up. I love that I’ve seen so many people talk to each other and make friends. I only hope that this sense of community stays throughout the rest of the semester,” Brendley Carey, senior computer science major and President of Grizz Balls, said.
RLA staff were present throughout the event, taking attendance and handing out s’mores supplies. Their goal for this event was to build community. This means community not only within housing and with the first-year students in mind, but also from returning students looking for a place to belong.
“It makes us feel really great, we do see some new faces but we also see some old faces. And it’s wonderful that people do come to our events as returners, it shows us that [the events] are perceived well,” Mena Booton, President of Residence Life Association, said.
RLA’s “Bond Fire” showed both first-years and returning students what positive community building looks like and capped off a truly packed move-in weekend.
An upcoming event that first-year students and beyond can look forward to is Midnight Block Party on September 13 at Oak View Lawn starting at 8:30 p.m. For more information about RLA and OU Housing, visit oakland.edu/housing or check out their instagram at instagram.com/ouhousing.
PHOTO BY ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
PHOTO BY CHELSEA BOSSERT
Meet Oakland University’s thriving political life
Earlier this week, Oakland University’s student organizations came to Elliot Tower to showcase the best of their clubs at GrizzFest. You may have stopped by to check out a few clubs and organizations, and along the way, a couple may have caught your eye: images of mini American flags being passed out, the colors red, white and blue and voices of students talking about their experiences with activism may be stuck in your mind and you begin to wonder how you can join in on the fun as well.
Is there pressing issue on campus that you can’t seem to get over? Something that causes you to toss and turn at night due to the feelings of hopelessness in resolving the issue?
There are many ways students can advocate for themselves and express their own political interests on campus. Oakland University provides an array of political organizations that can help students not only become involved on campus but can also help them network and create connections in the political world.
College Republicans
For those who align with the Republican Party, College Republicans may be calling your name.
“Being a member of OU’s College Republicans allows students to meet other like-minded students they’re able to have intellectual conversations with,” Vice President Angelina Eleas said.
To Eleas and other members, the organization allows students to become informed about the Republican Party and its necessity to American politics. Through monthly events and board meetings, students can form connections to politicians, government officials and interns who have experience in the field.
“Since all of our board members have some sort of political background and knowledge on politics in America, we are all able to work together in accommodating our members and making sure everyone learns something from our meetings,” Eleas said.
Oakland’s College Republican organization is one of many on-campus Republican programs that are offered at universities across the state of Michigan, making advocating “much easier and much more important,” according to Eleas.
“There is nothing to lose from trying something new, and we are welcoming to all college students! We work hard as a board, and we always try to keep up with any news we hear in politics in order
to make sure we’re consistent in our morals as a party,” Eleas said. “Politics affects everything around us, and being involved at a young age allows us to build a future we are proud of that is rooted in traditional values and educated citizens of our great country!”
Eleas is currently working for the 2025-2026 John James for MI Governor Campaign, serving as the Political Outreach and Financial Affairs Assistant.
For more information regarding College Republicans, you can find them on Grizzorgs or on Instagram.
For those who align themselves with the Democratic Party, College Democrats of Oakland University (CDOU) is a great way to meet others with the same beliefs and network in the political party.
“Serving as Vice President of this organization has provided me with the opportunity to advocate for issues that are important to me and the greater student body,” Vice President Marion Brumer said. ” The bulk of the advocacy our club takes part in manifests in the form of programming, where we either host panels to educate the student body on relevant issues or create events that allow students to inform their elected officials of things that are important to them.”
Last year, CDOU hosted a panel in which elected women serving various roles in office discussed their personal experiences with politics. Their anecdotes displayed the significance of having representation in our government.
Their first meeting will take place on Sept. 12 from 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. with their Speed-friending event as a way to quickly meet new people with similar interests.
You can find more information regarding the organization on their page at Grizzorgs.com or by joining their Discord account.
Oakland University Student Congress
If there are pressing issues on campus that you feel the urgency to advocate for, Oakland University’s Student Congress serves as a platform
story by Sophia Curran graphic by August Wicker & Ava Guest
to raise your voice and spread awareness.
“Being involved in Student Congress gives students a direct line to shaping their college experience,” OUSC President Marcus Johnson said. “You don’t just sit in a room and talk policy, you learn how to work with administrators, advocate for resources, and represent student voices that might otherwise get overlooked. It’s a crash course in leadership, communication, and accountability that sticks with you long after graduation.”
Johnson has served in OUSC since 2023 and recently won the role as President alongside Vice President Nia Matthews in April.
Johnson also believes that the environment allows you to understand and work on cooperating with people you may disagree with “in the interest of serving a purpose that’s higher than yourself.”
According to Johnson, OUSC is an effective way to help resolve concerns on campus by actively taking action.
“Whether that’s maintaining programs like the free menstrual product access, working with the provost to develop a midterm grade policy, or making sure diversity and inclusion stay a priority on campus, Congress has been a platform to take student needs and fight to make them real. I like to think of it as advocacy with teeth because you can see the impact that you’re pushing for,” Johnson said.
“Don’t wait for permission. You don’t need to already be an expert or hold a title to make a difference. Show up, speak up, and push for change, because the people who make the most impact on campus are usually the ones who decided they weren’t going to sit on the sidelines,” Johnson said when asked his biggest piece of advice for those who want to exercise their rights as a student on campus.
General Body Meetings are held every Tuesday from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
More information about OUSC can be found on their page at Grizzorgs.com or on their official Instagram page.
Pi Sigma Alpha is the national honor society for political science students, with origins tracing back all the way back to 1920.
College Democrats of Oakland University
Pi Sigma Alpha
There are certain requirements established by the national organization that must be met before being considered for a membership: students, either graduate or upper level undergraduate, must have political science or public administration declared as a major or minor, having completed a minimum of 12 of those credits at Oakland University. In addition, students must at least be a junior with an overall GPA of at least 3.0.
Regardless of these requirements, most events are open to the public, such as their career panels and member meetings.
“We focus on career development for OU students who are interested in political science. It’s really nice meeting other students within my major, since I study International Relations,” Vice President Mallory Waligora said.
Waligora joined Pi Sigma Alpha during her sophomore year of Oakland University and joined the executive board as Vice President this fall as a senior.
“It’s really nice coming into a new class and already knowing a few students thanks to the Pi Sigma Alpha events I attended earlier — it really creates a nice community.”
Another thing that Waligora appreciates about Pi Sigma Alpha is the ability to network within the honor society.
“A lot of students are currently in internships or have completed some, so it’s helpful to ask around and see how other students are getting involved locally,” Waligora said.
More information can be found on Grizzorgs or on their official Instagram page.
You may not be concerned about issues regarding our campus, but issues regarding countries and communities around the globe is something that you feel passionate about.
Model UN allows students to exercise their minds as they work to represent countries and solve complex issues that reflect the current state of the world.
With two nationwide Model UN conferences every year, members work together to help resolve issues, preparing them for the challenges they may face in the future of international relations.
More information about the club can be found on their page on Grizzorgs or their official Instagram page.
The Oakland Post
As a reporter and editor for politics at The Oakland Post, relying on credible news sources is essential to obtaining reliable information regarding our government or any type of news. Viewing information from government announcements, official organizations, educational websites with research-backed information and nonpartisan news sites can help you gain your footing in the complex yet enticing political world.
In addition, whether you find yourself interested in politics or it may sound like something that doesn’t involve you, the truth is that politics involves everyone, everywhere and at all times.
Staying in the loop about what is occurring politically in the country may seem dreadful, but when consumed in moderation, it can heavily benefit you on how you can make a difference in your life and community. Following reliable news sites can assure you of the vital decisions currently being made in your local and national government.
Just taking 10 minutes a day to watch or read the news can make a difference in discovering how politics shapes your environment, and more importantly, how you can make a difference about it. Signing petitions, taking time to advocate for yourself and others and voting for people that best represent your needs are small ways you can improve your life and local communities.
More information about The Oakland Post can be found on their website or Instagram page.
Final Advice
Take advantage of the diverse environment you’re in and utilize that to expand your horizons. College will be one of the most eye-opening experiences if you allow it to be. Students and professors come from all walks of life, and with that they bring their own experiences and morals. Using the time that you have in university to gain different perspectives can provide you with knowledge that no education can buy.
Even if you may not be a political science major, you still have a duty as a student at Oakland University to advocate and participate in decisions that better you and the student body.
Model United Nations Club
Concerns arise as universities across the U.S. face new risks under Trump administration
MATILDE RABAJOLI Political Reporter
Colleges across the U.S. face a new set of struggles as international students face residency issues and new government policies threaten financial research funds.
Vacations have come to a close, luggages are packed for school, a new chill comes through the September wind and move-in days get closer and closer. Students all around the U.S. have gotten back into their dorms, or newly rented apartments, some for the first time, and others for their last. Many emotions come from occupying a newly created home, and returning to a routine that holds deadlines, exams, heavier work hours and less time to see friends.
This back-to-school excitement takes priority in student’s minds, and yet there is now an additional presence on the students attending various higher educational institutions. These uncertainties weigh heavily on research foundations and international students.
Tensions have been stewing in schools since the beginning of the year. From an increasing presence of the Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE), protesting for President Trump’s cutting of the federal research funds have caused student protests on campuses across the U.S.
Many remember the internet presence that the Harvard v. Trump case had back in April, when the issue of federal research funding first came up. The Washington Post explained the dilemma as “The government withholding billions in federal funding
from Harvard inflamed its dispute with the university, and it came after the Trump administration accused Harvard of allowing antisemitism to flourish on campus and made demands for change at the school, which Harvard leaders rejected.”
Though Harvard University was the most notorious on headlines, many other influential schools were affected such as: Columbia, Brown, the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell, Northwestern, Duke and Princeton.
“‘I do think there’s a big, big spike in how much people feel scared,’ Abdullah Shahid Sial, a junior who is co-president of the undergraduate student body at Harvard, said.
The federal fund cuts and school protests aren’t just important because of the loss in the country’s innovation and health research, but also because of the subliminal message that creates other consequences
for schools.
“At the University at Buffalo, the overall decline of about 15% of international students is happening mostly in graduate programs, especially in the STEM fields. But it’s not just Buffalo. Universities all over the country are experiencing similar drops. Arizona State University reported a fall semester decline for the first time since 2020. Declines have been announced at universities in Texas, Missouri and Illinois. The state of Massachusetts is expecting about 10,000 fewer new international students this year,” NPR reported.
“This is obviously the most intense assault on higher education by the federal government in the history of the United States,” Todd Wolfson, the president of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP), said. “Everyone is coming into fire.”
“Following the arrest and the detention and the threat of deportation of several students … I felt that it was too risky for me to do research in the Middle East,” Nadje Al-Ali, a German anthropologist and former director of the Center for Middle East Studies at Brown University, said in court. “Although these were students, I felt like, OK, next in line will be faculty.”
“There’s a lot of hopelessness and devastation – no one I know is feeling secure in terms of affording rent and groceries, or whether they will be expelled or fired,” Maura Finkelstein said, an anthropologist who last year became the first tenured professor to be fired over her pro-Palestinian advocacy since the war in Gaza started. “There’s real, material fear.”
Universities must leave the decision to protect their funding and students up to the courts as they try to resort to a new normal.
PHOTO COURTESY TO GETTY IMAGES
Golden Grizzlies’ Food Pantry Relocates
ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
Campus Editor
Seven years after its inauguration, the Golden Grizzlies’ Food Pantry moved locations after a flood over the summer. With no available garments and backstock food on the shelves, the pantry’s team said they suffered no major losses.
On July 28, the drains at the Oakland Center’s (OC) basement gushed with trouble. This time, the flooding forced the pantry into the Lake Michigan room while the Office for Student Involvement (OSI) went to Lake Superior room.
“There is a drain outside of the old pantry and I saw some footage of when the flooding was happening,”
Leah Mosier, a bachelor’s of social work intern at the pantry, said. “It was coming all up through the drain and then just going through the basement floor. It went into the pantry and into the OSI, it all happened pretty quickly.”
As the water rose on the south end of the basement, both offices had to move equipment and items on top of the shelves to avoid material losses while the OC coordinated to close down the basement.
“The lower level has experienced water entering the lower level regularly since the renovation and expansion were completed in Fall 2018,” Chris Reed, the OC’s executive director, said. “The amount of rainfall in this case caused water to come up through storm drain cleanouts and cracks in the floor throughout the lower level.”
The lower level of the building experienced a similar flood in August 2023. Reed explained that the
clean-out work of that instance impacted the level of water witnessed this year.
“‘Ground zero,’ or those areas from the Habitat towards the Office for Student Involvement, had approximately one inch of standing water,” Reed said. “Since the rain fell during the afternoon, many staff members were quick to respond to limit the impact, and Belfor was able to respond and send a team the same day to start the clean-up.”
The timing was chaotic, Mosier explained, as both the OSI and the pantry had training the days following the flood, coupled with the task of moving the entire office to the new rooms.
“If you’ve noticed, we don’t have any clothes on the racks, but as far as we know, they’re currently being dry cleaned,” Mosier said. “We don’t know a timeline of when we’re going to get them back, but as far as we know, they’re being sanitized from the
flood, and there weren’t any super major losses.”
The open room at the new pantry stands in contrast with the prior office, lined with shelves and a separate conference room. There is no designated space for garments or backstock.
“Now, pretty much most of what we have is on the shelves; there’s a small exception with a little bit of overflow,” Mosier said. “It means you might not be able to keep the shelves as consistently full as they used to be. So that’s something we’re currently navigating.”
In the meantime, modifications have been done to the drywall and insulation, which absorb water — Reed explained. Much of the carpet and vinyl tile in the damaged areas was replaced with epoxy flooring, which is easier to clean.
“The University is currently in the process of finding a permanent solution to the issues that are causing these ‘water intrusion events,’” Reed said. “While there is not a 100% fool-proof solution, our hope is to reduce the number of times water enters the lower level, and even in cases such as this past July that the impact is far less and quicker to restore.”
The OSI and Golden Grizzlies’ Food Pantry are expecting to move into the former gear shop across from where they are located now. Without a definitive date for their relocation, the best way to support the pantry is through donations and word of mouth.
“If you have peers who are having a difficult time, a lot of students, because we’ve been in the basement, don’t necessarily know we exist,” Mosier said. “So the more you can spread the word to students, to know where the resource is for them, the better.”
PHOTO BY ADRIAN JIMENEZ MORALES
OUPD installs speed bumps near P1 to enhance safe driving
CHELSEA BOSSERT Editor-in-Chief
Speeding is a prevalent issue on campus, especially on Meadow Brook Road near lot P1. The posted limit is 15 MPH, yet it is a common occurrence for drivers to exceed the speed limit and blow past students trying to use the cross walks — or even collide with pedestrians.
In December of 2023, the office of the OU Chief of Police released a statement that said the office “has responded to or learned of an increasing number of vehicle-pedestrian incidents on campus in recent weeks, including one that sent a student to the hospital for treatment of injuries.”
A solution was desperately needed to curb vehicle related incidents. In summer of 2025, a road resurfacing project was undertaken on Meadow Brook Road near lot P1, and a perfect opportunity arose for OUPD.
“So the process for implementation was the fact that we knew we had a road waste resurfacing project that was occurring this summer. And the best time to put those in is at the time that you are redoing the road,” Police Chief Marc Gordon of OUPD, said. “So we had looked at doing this for some time because of the speed in the area and the near misses from all those pedestrian crosswalks that we’ve had and experienced over the years. So we said: ‘if we’re going to do this, now’s the time.’”
Holden Hernandez, a sophomore commuter student, has experienced the road with and without speedbumps
and gave his opinion on the situation.
“[The speedbumps] are positive, because they make me stop for pedestrians,” Hernandez said.
The reaction from students around campus has largely been positive, however the decision to include the speed bumps has been an internal decision by OUPD.
“It has been effective. It’s worked,” Chief Gordon said. “We had received input from students over the last two or three years, especially on the number of cars going by and which the speed they are going by.”
Some student leaders’ reactions have been more mixed than most commuters. Valentine Fayette-Étés, a legislator for Oakland University Student Congress, thinks that there are some improvements that need to be made in order for the campus to truly be safer.
“From what I’ve seen, people tend to not see the speed bumps most of the time, or just still go the same speed anyway,” Fayette-Étés said. “I don’t think that the speed bumps really changed the fact that drivers aren’t paying attention to the students on the street.”
Despite the mixed reactions from some students, OUPD is overall satisfied with their decision to add the speed bumps. Chief Gordon has confirmed that the speed bumps are the last road project of the year, but plan on more next year.
“We’ve got all the improvements for this year that we’re going to do. We may look at something else, more over by the Recreation Center next year — if roadway resurfacing gets approved,” Chief Gordon said.
PHOTO BY KIRK THORTON via Unsplash
Creative clubs to get involved in this fall
MARIA MAGNOLI Arts Reporter
Welcome back Grizzlies! Whether a first year or returner to Oakland University, this is bound to be the best year yet. This fall is an era dedicated to new beginnings, hard work and meeting new people. The homework will always be heavy, but making connections on campus with like-minded souls can ease the weight. Joining creative clubs is an amazing way to find such people, so here are some that OU has to offer!
BeGolden Magazine
BeGolden is a fashion magazine uniting all majors wanting to express creativity through a variety of mediums. Members can participate in writing, styling, page design, modeling, styling, editing, social media, PR — or even join as general members — all working together toward publishing an issue each semester.
“The opportunities are endless with BeGolden. Whether you want to build your portfolio, or find a new creative outlet — everyone has a voice in fashion!”
President Laila Carlson said.
Meetings happen twice a month on Tuesday evenings in Vandenberg 106 at 7:30 p.m. Follow @begoldenou on Instagram for updates.
Creative Writing Club
This club is an outlet for individuals to unleash the power of language through genres like nonfiction, fiction and poetry. All majors are welcome, especially those wanting to improve their storytelling and vocabulary.
“Creative Writing Club is a supportive environment to learn about different writing styles and techniques. We
love sharing our writing with the community and building our skills together,” President Breanne Peace said.
Meetings are held on Thursdays and Fridays, 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m., Lake Huron room in the Oakland Center. For more information, follow @creativewritingclubou on Instagram.
Graphix OU
Graphix engages students in the visual arts and harnesses graphic design of all kinds, including poster, book, magazine and website design. Those wanting to communicate messages in a variety of visual mediums will appreciate this experience.
“Graphix OU is a design club that unites students through creativity, skill building and community. We host design challenges, workshops, and fun events that inspire collaboration. Our events bring together designers of all skill levels to share, learn and create,” Cecilie Buie, vice president, said.
Makers at Oakland University
Makers is a multidisciplinary club that brings arts, engineering and science to life. No prior experience is needed — just a passion for creativity and innovation.
“We believe innovation thrives when people with different skills and perspectives work side by side, and our mission is to inspire originality, encourage experimentation, and help members reach their full creative potential. As our motto goes: ‘If you can dream it, you can make it!’” Kimberly Maynard, president, said.
The Maker’s Club meets every Friday at 5 p.m. in 213 Dodge Hall.
Opera Club
The Opera Club aims to educate members about the complexities of the genre. No prior experience of opera
performance is necessary, only a passion for opera itself. Members will gain experience through performance and discussion to advance their knowledge and share unforgettable moments.
“We are a group of people curious about opera. You do not need to be an expert or performer in opera. Low commitment club but lots of fun.” Lauren Hummer, president, said.
Percussion Studio at OU
The Percussion Studio gives members a wellrounded education on percussive instruments. Through performance and discussion, students learn a variety of common rhythmic patterns and musical sequences, in addition to learning more about the cultures from which they originate.
“Percussion Studio at OU meets weekly for masterclass which ranges from educational presentations, student and guest artist appearances. Our studio also takes an annual trip to Indianapolis for PASIC, which is the largest percussion convention in the world,” President Nate Iott said.
WXOU
WXOU is a radio station that delivers real world broadcasting experience. Students are able to plan music events, participate in digital streaming and more.
“WXOU is a student-led radio station that provides opportunities in broadcasting and journalism regardless of major! Members can host radio shows, write for our website, broadcast Oakland sports, start a podcast, DJ events and so much more!” Maya Kirksey, general manager, said.
If interested, go to WXOU.org/join and follow @ wxouradio on Instagram.
Sports after high school: only for D1 babies?
JAMES ELLING Sports Editor
Taking part in the beautiful thing we call “sport” is one of the most impactful yet enjoyable forms of personal development known to mankind.
Sports boost physical and emotional health, and they develop life skills — sports create discipline, require teamwork and provide opportunities to persevere.
Sports allow participants to ride the emotional roller coaster of winning and losing, to feel accomplished and, maybe most importantly, to have fun.
For most Golden Grizzlies, this opportunity ends when they reach the college level — or so they think. Thankfully, students don’t have to be the second coming of Jack Gohlke to participate in sports while getting the university education they desire.
Oakland’s University Recreation and Well-Being department, or RecWell, has several solutions to the tragedy that is “outgrowing” organized athletics.
For students who will miss it all — the games, the practices, the team dynamics, the uniforms, the travel and the tryouts — there are club sports.
Oakland has over 20 club sports, including soccer, hockey, football, volleyball, water polo, lacrosse and more.
Senior Erin Flynn is going into her fourth year on the women’s club soccer team. She joined as a freshman and now serves as the vice president.
Flynn credits the soccer club as instrumental to her college experience.
“The number one thing for me was getting to kow
people and establishing myself at OU,” Flynn said, “and that was through club soccer.”
Flynn also referenced club sports as a muchneeded competitive outlet for her, sharing “I would be way more stressed if I didn’t play.”
She credits club soccer for some of her fondest memories — from “super chill” practices, to each and every game, to unique opportunities like hosting a charity game for a teammate’s mother and even traveling to Texas for the National Intramural and Recreational Sports Association club soccer national championships.
“It was super fun traveling with my team,” Flynn said. “It was very much a bonding experience.”
Club soccer has sprinkled some fun and competition into Flynn’s college experience and provided her with things she will carry with her well beyond graduation: memories, relationships and life skills.
“I’ve grown a ton as a leader and communicator,” Flynn said.
For those who might not have time for the full nine yards but still yearn for some competition, Oakland’s intramurals, or RecWell Sports, are perfect.
RecWell sports rally teams from all sorts of social circles on campus — fraternities, classes, friend groups, campus ministries, student organizations, high school teammates or even people meeting for the first time on game day — and pin them against each other in a quest for glory — and a championship T-shirt.
In the fall 2025 semester, RecWell sports enthusiasts will have the opportunity to compete in any number and combination of pickleball, soccer, volleyball, track and field, flag football, basketball and an iron man challenge.
Whether joining for a multi-week season or a one-day tournament, participants could get the excitement of game time while doing what they love or trying something new. No conditioning required! Competition-loving grizzlies looking for anything between a one-day tournament and a heavy commitment may not have to look any further than their own campus.
Students can find specific information for Oakland’s club sports on the RecWell website and intramural sports details and registration on the “Fusion Play” app.
These commitments, small or large, could be the start of a consistently healthy and active lifestyle that carries well into adulthood — and they might even result in a T-shirt to prove it.
PHOTO CURTSY THE NEW YORK TIMES
SPB Hosts Annual Carnival: Cartoon Mania
MARISSA GETSCHMAN Arts Editor
Among the most anticipated events each year, SPB’s welcome week carnival took place on Friday, September 5th from 5 - 9pm. Students flocked to parking lot 37 near Squirrel road after classes to enjoy free carnival rides, games, dancing and snacks.
Held each year as one of the first big SPB events, Carnival is always a blast. Not just students, but alumni, family members and a few children flock to the scene to enjoy the extravaganza.
“The event went really well!” Maggie Bassett, SPB Treasurer said, “ Summer has been working on it since late June. She’s done so incredible.”
“Some of us missed class and it was a whole ordeal, but I think it was worth it” Basset said. Members of the board were out as early as 10am working on set up.
Students were first met with two lines at the entrance of the event. One to get wristbands which was a quick and easy process, very well stream lined. The second was a long, yet fan favorite line; plushies! This year hosted a series of animals one might see in a cartoon circus, such as lions, giraffes and bears.
This year’s rides included the typical swings and slide line-up, but also classic bumper cars. The bumper cars were created via small, circular plastic vehicles steered via joysticks surrounded by an innertube to
of the fun was watching classmates hoot and holler. Laughter and screeches of fun could be heard from every corner of the lot.
One of the most packed events at carnival took place in the center of it all. With no line to wait for it, line dancing always garners a crowd. Folks were giving it their all and having a blast. Some dance-masters even took the time to teach new dances to students who were previously strangers, so even novice dancers crowded the scene with new friends.
“The carnival is the best time to get back together
with your friends at the start of the year”, Julia Carlisle, a Music Technology major said. “I enjoy being able to have events like this, for sure a reason why I love OU. I will say, please bring the swings back next year!” Fear not to anyone upset that they missed the carnival; SPB hosts a myriad of events bolstering the same caliber throughout the school year. This includes Casino Night, Haunted Hallways and a masquerade ball among other can’t miss events. To keep up with all SPB has to offer, follow their account on Instagram @spbou.
