“Dr. Russi is an advocate for the business community through the many partnerships and initiatives he encourages through Oakland University,” said Sheri Heiney, executive director of the Rochester Regional Chamber. “We are proud to award him the Lifetime Achievement Award.”
In addition, the Department of Campus Recreation’s Shape Up OU program garnered the Wellness at Work Award, accepted by Mila Padgett, assistant director of programs. The incentive-based health and wellness program educates, coaches and mentors employees in the areas of nutrition, exercise and overall fitness goals.
“The Wellness at Work program is a great program and we were impressed with the ongoing encouragement of participants, as well as the incentives and rewards for employees to continue working on their health goals,” said Heiney.
This year’s OU Educator Award, which recognizes an educator in the greater Rochester area (kindergarten through post-graduate) who has developed innovative programming showing measurable results in raising student subject enthusiasm and achievement, was presented to David Ehrlich, a teacher at Adams High School.
The OU INC Economic Development Award was presented to Mayor Bryan Barnett of the City of Rochester Hills for the numerous strategic partnerships and economic tools that allow the city to target resources toward high-growth industries. City officials also have made significant progress in ensuring support is provided to foster the success of local businesses, create quality jobs and secure a competitive advantage locally and globally.
Oakland University is a proud partner of the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce, which was recently named the 2008 Chamber of the Year by the Michigan Chamber of Commerce.