PLEASE NOTE: The petition does not require or request a donation.

Given the pressing financial and emotional challenges our institution is facing, we respectfully request that the Board consider expediting Dr. Pollard's transition from the presidency. We believe that waiting nine months to begin the recovery and transition process may not be in the best interest of the university.

As we move to the next phase in the process towards transparency, accountability, and correction at OU, we put forth the following requests to the OU Board of Trustees:

Board Restructure 

We, the Concerned Oakwoodites, request that the OU Board of Trustees be restructured to provide an elevated level of higher education expertise and better meet the institution's financial, academic, and spiritual needs. Given Oakwood’s declining trends over the past 10 years and the Board’s failure to provide adequate governance, develop a viable strategic plan, secure the institution’s financial health, reverse the consistent decline in student enrollment, and build and maintain the school’s reputation and relationships, we feel that the restructuring of the Board is necessary for the viability and solvency of the school.

Selection Process Transparency and Inclusivity 

We, the Concerned Oakwoodites, request that the selection process for the new president be transparent and inclusive.  The Oakwood community is globally invested academically, professionally, and spiritually, and we feel it would be in the best interest of the current and future alumni, parents, students, faculty, and staff be given a legitimate voice in a democratic selection process for the new president.

Shortened Transition Plan

We, the Concerned Oakwoodites, request that Dr. Pollard’s tenure be concluded by the end of the year and that his authority be limited in major decision-making and exclude major purchases, hiring/firing, and travel.  He should use or be compensated for any accumulated personal leave. This would allow him to immediately begin to transition to his new position and give the students, faculty, and staff time to prepare for new leadership. We request that an interim president and team be appointed within this timeframe to facilitate a smooth transfer of power so that the restoration and rebuilding process can begin sooner.

We believe this approach will provide multiple benefits to putting Oakwood on track to success, opening up fundraising opportunities, and building a high level of trust and unity that will last, we hope, until Jesus comes.

We are asking all individuals who care about Oakwood University to sign this petition. This includes alumni, friends, parents and students.

Thank You

PLEASE NOTE: The petition does not require or request a donation.