Oakland University Explores Data Center Feasibility, Prioritizes Infrastructure Modernization

Oakland University is in the initial stages of evaluating the feasibility of constructing a data center on its campus, a move driven by the need to modernize infrastructure and expand academic laboratory space. The university clarified its position following recent public discussion and misinformation surrounding the potential project.

Project Status: Initial Due Diligence

According to Stephen W. Mackey, Senior Vice President for Finance &amp. Administration and Treasurer to the Board of Trustees, Oakland University has not made any decisions regarding the data center and a final decision is likely months away. The university has entered a 120-day assessment period with Fairmount Properties to collaboratively evaluate the project’s feasibility [1].

This initial phase will focus on:

• Identifying academic and research programming opportunities.
• Identifying potential industry partners.
• Engineering and preliminary design work.
• Developing a comprehensive business plan.

Modernizing Infrastructure and Expanding Lab Space

A key objective of the project is to relocate the university’s existing data center from Dodge Hall, thereby creating additional academic laboratory space within the building. “This has been a core objective of the project from the beginning — updating our current computing capabilities even as simultaneously expanding laboratory space as part of the broader Dodge Hall renovation,” Mackey stated [1].

Transparency and Public Engagement

Oakland University has established a dedicated AI Institute and Data Center webpage to provide detailed information and ensure transparency throughout the process. The webpage includes:

• Strategic Planning: Alignment with OU’s Strategic Vision 2030 and Campus Plan 2035.
• Project Timeline: A proposed two-year timeline for due diligence.
• Project Goals: Detailed information on the university’s objectives.
• University Oversight: A list of personnel involved in the exploration.
• Feedback Channel: A frequently asked questions section and a dedicated email address for public feedback.

University Leadership

Key university personnel involved in the project include:

• Brian Calley: Chair of the Board of Trustees [1]
• Trina Scott: Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees [1]
• Ora Hirsch Pescovitz: University President [1]
• Joshua Merchant: Chief of Staff and Secretary to the Board of Trustees [1]
• Stephen W. Mackey: Senior Vice President for Finance & Administration and Treasurer to the Board of Trustees [1], [2], [3]