As we reflect on the past year, I am reminded of God’s unwavering faithfulness and His promises for the future. On April 19, 2023, an EF-2 tornado struck our campus—the most devastating natural disaster in Oklahoma Baptist University’s (OBU) 114-year history. Yet, in the midst of destruction, we witnessed the Lord’s protection. By God’s grace, no lives were lost, and there were no serious injuries. God has begun to transform what we might call a “dark night” in OBU’s history into a once-in-a-century opportunity for renewal, a new dawn for a new future.
At OBU, we are moving boldly into the future with a radical faith that God will provide for the work begun here. Today, I invite you to join us in this moment of transformation as we launch our “Shape the Future” campaign. This bold step forward calls on our OBU family and friends to partner with us as we prioritize three strategic arenas for impact over the next thirty-six months. These three strategic priorities will empower our students to fulfill God’s purpose for their lives. Over the next 36 months, we are prioritizing: (1) academic investment in relevant academic programs, (2) transforming our legacy learning facilities and (3) enhancing campus life for the future.
With these priorities, we are building on success. Our campus renewal is already well underway! When you visit campus, you will marvel at the physical rebuilding of our facilities, to be sure, but more than that, you will note strategic investment in new academic programs. These programs prepare students for workforce needs and market demands. But more importantly, these programs are intentionally designed to be taught from a Christian perspective. From start to finish, our students receive an education that is not only academically rigorous but deeply rooted in biblical truth. As we press forward, our commitment remains resolute: we know a Christ-centered education transforms lives.
This moment of rebuilding isn’t just about new buildings or better facilities; it’s about deepening our mission to prepare the next generation of Future Shapers who will impact the world for Christ. The work ahead of us is rooted in faith and built upon a long-term vision for what God will do here on Bison Hill.
Over the next three years, our “Shape the Future” campaign will position OBU for long-term success and growth.
ACADEMIC INVESTMENT is essential to equipping our students for impactful careers. We will strengthen our Health Science, STEM, Business and Liberal Arts programs, expand Online and Graduate Education, and establish endowed Professorships and Chairs to attract top faculty.
FACILITY IMPROVEMENT will ensure our historic campus continues to serve future generations. Key projects include the renovation of Shawnee Hall, Thurmond Hall, Raley Chapel, and the Wood Science Building, each enhancing the academic and spiritual life of our community.
CAMPUS LIFE E will transform the student experience. Plans include upgrades to food services, athletic facility improvements, and a comprehensive masterplan to beautify campus with new sidewalks, trees and landscaping. We’ll also increase support for student clubs and organizations to foster vibrant community life.
These initiatives represent our commitment to providing a life-changing, Christ-centered education that prepares students for lives of leadership and service. With your support, we will shape a bold and faithful future for Oklahoma Baptist University.
I invite you to be part of this journey with us—to invest in our mission, in our students and in the future God is shaping for OBU. Together, let’s step forward in bold faith, trusting in the One who holds the future in His hands. Together, let’s inspire a generation to live all of life, all for Jesus.
