With deep sorrow, the Oakland University business school mourns the passing of Wayne Blizman. An integral part of the School of Business Administration since 2003, Wayne served passionately and enthusiastically as adjunct professor, mentor, advisor and friend to many in the OU community. He passed away September 27.
His contributions to the business school were many, including his involvement with the Entrepreneurship Institute, Director of Students in Free Enterprise, and most recently as Director of the ideas 2 Business lab. He also taught for several years as an adjunct professor.
“Wayne was an integral part of the SBA since 2003, and he will be missed by many,” said Michael Mazzeo, dean, OU business school.
“The world lost a great man, a university lost a visionary, and I miss my mentor,” wrote Brennon Edwards a 2009 OU graduate in a Facebook message. “Thanks again for everything Wayne.”
Edwards, a television producer who works for National Geographic, served as President of SIFE, told The Oakland Post that Wayne helped him launch is career and taught him everything he knows about business and turning an idea into reality.
“Wayne was real, he was sly, and he kept you on the edge of your seat. He cared about peace and justice, and his love for his family was paramount. From his wispy hair to his dress shoes, he was an inspiration to all. The school lost a true visionary. It is hard to imagine Oakland without him,” wrote Alex Cherup in a tribute in The Oakland Post. Cherup is a 2008 OU graduate who just completed law school. As an OU undergraduate student he served as SIFE director of communications.
Business school faculty and staff took time to share their memories him and honor him at an early October meeting. Memories are echoed on Wayne’s memorial website.
“Wayne was one of the most humane, interesting, engaged people I have ever met. If only 5% of humanity was as genuinely nice as Wayne, the world would be a greatly better place,” wrote Paul Licker, professor, management information systems.
“Wayne was a great man who had a great love of family and passion in business,” wrote Lisa Desmet, assistant to the dean. “A great influence on everyone he met.”
The family held a private service. To share memories or send condolences, please visit the online guestbook
Memorial tribute in photos (powerpoint)
Related articles
Oakland Post obituary by Kaylee Kean
Oakland Post tribute by Alex Cherup
With deep sorrow, the Oakland University business school mourns the passing of Wayne Blizman. An integral part of the School of Business Administration since 2003, Wayne served passionately and enthusiastically as adjunct professor, mentor, advisor and friend to many in the OU community. He passed away September 27.
His contributions to the business school were many, including his involvement with the Entrepreneurship Institute, Director of Students in Free Enterprise, and most recently as Director of the ideas 2 Business lab. He also taught for several years as an adjunct professor.