More than 50 Oakland University students and staff rounded out OU’s entry in this year’s Rochester Hometown Christmas Parade televised live on Channel 7 Dec. 6, 2009. The parade annually welcomes more than 100,000 spectators to downtown Rochester.
Oakland University Cheerleaders and Dance Team members performed the OU Fight Song and other routines as they marched down Main Street, giving parade-goers a taste of Grizzlies pride and spirit.
OU’s mascot, The Grizz, also participated, waving to crowds of people from the backseat of a convertible donated by Rochester Chamber sponsors.
“This is our 5th year participating in the parade and we look forward to it each year,” Laura Mutz, communications director, University Relations said. “It’s a festive, fun occasion and we appreciate the volunteer time given by our dance, cheer and mascot squads even as finals are approaching, to carry Oakland’s presence in the community during this event.”
Cassie Clem, an elementary education major, OU Cheerleader, and a returning parade marcher added, “I’m from Rochester and I work in Rochester Community Schools, so it’s great to see everyone from my community. I like being with my friends and supporting OU.”
Angelica Kwolek, a psychology major, Dance Team member, and also second-year participant in the parade agreed, “It’s a lot of fun to come here and be with the community and support our school. It’s a good holiday spirit and feeling.”
Honors College student Michelle Avery, a secondary art education major said, “This is a great opportunity for us to provide some community service for The Honors College. It’s nice to see people celebrating the holidays and nice to have people see that we’re from OU.”
Oakland University’s Dance Team performs at all OU men’s and women’s home basketball games and at select soccer and volleyball games. The team attends various appearances throughout the community, including parades, dance programs, and local events.
The OU Cheerleading team performs at all men’s and women’s basketball games and volleyball games. The team also volunteers their time in the community for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and youth cheerleading programs. OU Cheerleaders are ranked in the top 20 of all-girl collegiate cheerleading teams in the country.
Parade coverage, and OU’s involvement in the parade, will air throughout the month of December on Community Media Network.
