Nicole Wells Stallworth has been appointed Assistant Vice President for Government & Community Relations at Oakland University, effective Monday, Oct. 27. This is a new position for the relations office.

“I am very excited to have the opportunity to serve in this new capacity,” Stallworth said. “To advocate on behalf of the students, faculty and staff of Oakland University, which is also on the rise for its vision of being known as one of Michigan’s premier research institutions, having already established some pretty phenomenal academic programs.”

The Office of Government and Community Relations serves as a liaison to public entities and constituencies, according to Stallworth and the office’s website. It is also responsible for both establishing and maintaining mutually beneficial relationships and partnerships with individuals who have a direct influence over public policy and appropriation matters that impact the university. 

Stallworth recently served as Director of Community Engagement, Government Affairs and Enrichment Programs for the Children’s Center. She is a Michigan Political Leadership Program alumna through Michigan State University’s Institute for Public Policy & Social Research and has a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Arts in Communication Studies from Wayne State University.

“All of her previous experience and dedication will make her a great attribute to the office and I hope to see her serve our school in the most respectable way,” OU student Chantel Lohmann said.

Stallworth said her goal is to ensure Oakland is first in mind when officials are considering legislation or policy matters that may have an impact on the university.

“Advocacy, public policy, government and community relations at the local, grassroots district level are some of the areas I will focus in on with a purpose and mission in mind of broadening Oakland University’s reach, awareness and contributions with tri-county government officials, community and association leaders,” Stallworth said.

Stallworth will be looking to share the message that OU is here to serve the community when is comes to being a collaborative community partner, and to add value to the quality of life for everyone involved through its research, educational programs and advocacy related activities.   

“I hope Stallworth will continuously better our university while in her new position,” senior Mia Fabian said. “After reading her previous experiences and accomplishments I believe she will be a good fit.”