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 &. 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]
Keep reading