OBU 2020
A Glimpse at the Journey to Reach OBU’s Strategic Vision IN 2010, OBU CELEBRATED ITS CENTENNIAL, marking 100 years of steadfast achievements throughout the life of the University. While honoring the rich history of OBU’s past, and considering the importance of preparing for the University’s future, OBU developed a strategic plan to serve as a guide for the next decade. Following are seven initiatives that drive the objectives and activities of the univerity and the progress made on each.
Through achievement of OBU 2020 initiatives, the University will expand the effectiveness of its mission as a distinctively Christian liberal arts university.
Enhance Academic Services, Programs and Support OBU will be recognized for excellence in targeted areas of expertise and leadership by developing missionalappropriate academic programs in the traditional liberal arts, professional areas and graduate programs. PROGRESS – OBU has added new academic areas and adapted curriculum in both undergraduate and graduate programs to meet the needs of changing environments. The University has added or expanded undergraduate programs in pre-counseling, digital animation, social entrepreneurship, Christian and crosscultural ministry, and creative writing among others. The graduate school expanded to become the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, adding master’s degrees in marriage and family therapy, global nursing and an MBA in energy management. Additional expansions to include two new master’s degrees and two new MBA tracks in leadership and project management are pending approval by the Higher Learning Commission.
Expand Student Scholarships OBU will expand existing scholarship programs and seek additional scholarships for students. PROGRESS – An additional 117 scholarships have been established and more than $17.4 million has been added to the University’s general endowment and to donor-specific scholarship endowments. During the last three years, efforts to increase scholarships have yielded major scholarship
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SUMMER 2014 OBU MAGAZINE