February 11, 2025
Oakland University Interim Provost Dr. Kevin Corcoran and School of Education and Human Services Dean Dr. Jon Margerum-Leys joined Dr. Latacha King and Sukie Gruesbeck from the OU Public School Academies Office on an insightful visit to Universal Academy on November 19th, 2024. The visit included a tour of the Academy’s facilities, classroom visits and ended with an engaging conversation with school leaders Uzma Anjum and Iman Hussein over a flavorful lunch prepared by the Academy’s staff.
The school leaders shared the unique aspects of the Academy located in the southwestern corner of Detroit on the border of Dearborn. The school is a true community school known for its well-rounded program which focuses on the study of international cultures. As a home to students from more than two dozen countries and 79% of students qualifying as English Language Learners, UA encourages students to break barriers and build bridges by sharing and celebrating their diverse cultural backgrounds. Students are led by dedicated educators who lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning in a safe and respectful environment. The staff and students at UA are proud of their achievements as evidenced by the numerous accolades earned each year by the Academy's graduates. Oakland University representatives were impressed by the amazing student art that lines every wall of the school and the dedication of the staff for the care and education of every student as well as the commitment to their community at large.
Universal Academy, which serves grades PK-12, has been chartered by Oakland University since 2005 and serves 695 K-12 students. The Academy was approved in 2023 by the Oakland University Board of Trustees for a new 5-year contract to expire in 2028.