Oakham Foundation invests in Toronto Metropolitan University students, offering them opportunities to discover what they love, who they are, and the power they have to make change. We are the anti-institution institution—cutting through the BS to provide more of the support and resources students need.

Our Story

In 1976, the Palin Foundation was incorporated as a charity with a mission to create a space for TMU students that was fully student governed. Fast forward to the early 2000s and that dream was realized in the building of the new Student Centre (SCC) adjoining the historic Oakham House at the corner of Gould and Church Streets in downtown Toronto. In 2026 to celebrate 50 years of the Foundation, the Palin Foundation became the Oakham Foundation. This change clarifies our existence and situates the Foundation in the physical space it occupies–Oakham House.

Oakham Foundation runs the SCC along with Oakham House. The SCC is home to student unions, affiliated campus groups, The Eyeopener newspaper, Met Radio and the Good Food Centre. Inside Oakham House you’ll find the Office of the Ombudsperson, Oakham Café, The Met Campus Pub and a host of rentable venue spaces. 

Our Mission

Oakham Foundation provides stable student employment, affordable and healthy food, a platform for advocacy, flexible spaces for student needs and a connection to community. 

Our Vision

A thriving, inclusive and independent student-led space. 

Our Values 

- Respect for all members of the Foundation's community

- Integrity in service delivery, external partnerships and operations

- Accessibility by reducing barriers so everyone benefits from shared spaces 

- Equity addressing all forms of oppression 

- Innovation in adapting to the needs of new student generations