On Thursday, Sept. 18, Oakland University students and faculty did not have to go far to find fresh, locally grown produce. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Campus Student Organic Farm (CSOF) hosted its farm stand near the Elliott Tower, offering vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers, baked goods, veggie snack boxes and more.
“Everything we sell is student-grown,” Shane Dawson, a farm representative, said. “It’s a great way for people to see what we’re working on and how food can be produced sustainably.”
The farm stand is more than just a place to grab lunch or stock up on produce, although it is a great place to do both. It is also the public face of the CSOF on campus. Since its start in 2015, the farm has provided students with hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture while supplying the campus community with healthy, organic foods. Everything sold at the farm stand is grown at the farm, which is located on the corner of Addams and Butler streets.
Certain products have become mainstays with students looking for convenient organic meals on campus. “The walking salads are definitely a favorite among students and our bestselling product,” Dawson said. The salad is a mix of fresh vegetables and greens that makes for an easy, on-the-go meal in between classes.
The farm stand also connects directly to the CSOF’s Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, also known as the Farm Shares program. Through this program, members receive weekly shares of produce throughout the growing season. The 2025 CSA program has already sold out of its full-season option, but shorter shares and a new fall season package remain available. Each share, weighing 8 to 10 pounds, includes a variety of vegetables, herbs and sometimes fruit, while the flower share provides a fresh bouquet each week.
“Members aren’t just getting produce but are supporting students who are learning real-world skills in agriculture, teamwork and sustainability.” Dawson said.
The CSOF emphasizes that its mission goes beyond farming. Students involved in the farm participate in classes and leadership opportunities that explore the connections between food production and community health. There are also internship, work study, and employment opportunities within environmental sciences and the Integrative Studies Program. Additionally, the farm donates fresh produce to the Golden Grizzlies Pantry and local nonprofit organizations, ensuring that the benefits of student-grown food extend beyond campus and into the local community.
“Whether you’re interested in nutrition, environmental science or just want to spend time outdoors, there’s a place for you at the farm,” Dawson said. For those who want to get involved, the Growing Grizzlies student organization provides an array of volunteer and educational opportunities. Members help with farm work, distribute produce and organize events ranging from film screenings to farm potlucks.
Now well into its tenth year, the farm stand has long been considered a staple in sustainable agriculture on campus. When next walking past Elliott Tower on a Thursday morning, it should come as no surprise to see tables lined with colorful bouquets, crisp vegetables and an array of fresh herbs waiting for purchase.
