Introduction to AOUG
AOUG members are passionate about the Open University and their OU degree experience and want to share that passion with like-minded people whilst showing their gratitude to the OU by supporting it in any way possible.
The Association was formed in 1988 so is well established having evolved over many years. It is legally Incorporated and run by a democratically elected Executive Committee with Memorandum and Articles registered with Company House and Standing Orders for more detailed day to day procedures. We not only run the main Association company, Association of Open University Graduates Ltd., but also AOUG Trading and our own charity AOUG Foundation for Education. The AOUG Foundation for Education, funded from members' donations and legacies, presents annual awards, nationally to OU research students and regionally to new graduates who have gained their degree despite adversity.
We are far more than just a club or society, although obviously our strong regional structure provides that fellowship by organising academic and social events.
In brief we are:
- Exclusive - Subscription membership organisation exclusively for OU graduates
- Independent - Independent of the OU whilst being endorsed by the OU
- Democratic - Run by elected volunteer OU graduates in support of the OU
- International, yet Regional - Supporting International members whilst offering UK members personal regional contact
- A fellowship - Involvement at all levels in our communications and direction
- Proven - Established in 1988 with the OU's approval and still self supporting
