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A group of Pioneer Club members posing for a photo outside

About Us

As a retiree, you remain an esteemed member of the Oakland University community. 

The Pioneer Club was founded to foster continued connection, engagement and enrichment for OU retired faculty and staff. Through a variety of curated social, intellectual and cultural experiences, we offer opportunities to stay involved with the university, deepen personal and professional networks, and continue lifelong learning.

We welcome all retired faculty and staff, as well as their spouses, partners, widows and widowers, to rediscover the joys of academic and social engagement with OU. 

Reconnect with former colleagues, explore new interests and remain an integral part of the proud Oakland University family. Join us today!

"The Pioneer Club monthly luncheons are a great way to see and speak with former OU people who you knew but may not normally see in retirement! It also gives people a chance to meet other OU people that you may not have previously interacted with while at OU. As an OU alumnus and professor emeritus, I have spent and invested a great amount of time with the University and feel it is very much like an extension of family!” - Sheldon Gordon, OU alumnus and professor emeritus


The Pioneer Club Planning Committee

The Pioneer Club Planning Committee brings our exciting events and meaningful opportunities to life. Their commitment to fostering connections and enriching the experiences of our retired faculty and staff is what makes the Pioneer Club truly special. A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated Pioneer Club Planning Committee members!

2024-2025 Pioneer Club Planning Committee: 

  • Jane Bentham
  • Bob Gaylor
  • Sheldon Gordon
  • Art Griggs
  • Mary Isaacs
  • Rhonda Saunders
  • Laura Shartmann
  • Richard Stamps
  • Christine Stiller