After nearly six decades, Oakland Community College has closed its administrative operations from the George A. Bee Administration Center on Opdyke Road in Bloomfield Hills moving its administration staff to OCC campuses. The move is part of the College’s larger facility planning strategy that brings its employees closer to students, faculty and staff and continues its investment in academic programs and services.
The College sold the nine-acre property, including the Foundation House, to The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C. in Bloomfield Township as approved by the College’s Board of Trustees.
“The sale of our District Office is part of the College’s Future Plan,” said Chancellor Peter Provenzano. “Proceeds from the sale will be used to help fund our capital projects to ensure OCC learning spaces are state of the art and support student success.”
Some of the departments that operated from District Office over the years include Finance, Human Resources, Legal Affairs, Marketing, Purchasing, the OCC Foundation and others.
A Look Back
George A. Bee and his wife, Helene, purchased the property in 1940, according to a Bloomfield History Society article. Bee was the president of the Palmer-Bee Company, which made products used in conveyer and assembly lines systems. In 1956, he constructed a manufacturing plant and office on the property.
Oakland Community College purchased the property in 1965 and two years later began construction to convert the factory into the George A. Bee Administrative Center. Bee also donated the 2.5 acres with his residence and the Guest House to OCC.
Interesting Facts: Did You Know?
- The Guest House was first used by OCC as the Print shop
- The Bee residence was initially used as the Chancellor’s residence
- Approximately3.5 acres of the property is wetlands
About OCC
Offering nearly 100 degrees and certificates, OCC is Michigan’s largest multi-campus community college and one of the top transfer institutions in the state. The College provides academic, career training and enriching experiences, designed to empower students to reach their potential and enhance our community. More than 1 million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. A seven-person Board of Trustees governs OCC. Board members are elected on a non-partisan, at-large basis, serve as volunteers and are not paid. Mission statement: OCC is committed to empowering our students to succeed and advancing our community. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
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