Thankyou!
Dear Friends,
Thank you. Through your faithfulness and God’s provision, the promise of Oklahoma Baptist University continues to flourish. One hundred fifteen years ago, our founders forged this university in partnership for the common good. From those beginnings, we whispered a promise – a Christian university shaping lives for Christ and the world. Today, that whisper has become a triumphant shout echoing through the renewed halls of Shawnee Hall.
After the devastation of the 2023 tornado, your generosity and prayers brought renewal from the rubble. Through the ongoing Shape the Future campaign, we continue building on that sacred promise – equipping future shapers to lead, serve and live all of life, all for Jesus.
This is more than brick and stone. It is testimony that God still provides miracles. Friends, we are blessed by God, who has blessed us with you. May He continue to bless you and may He bless OBU.
Dr. Heath A. Thomas OBU President
On behalf of our students and the entire OBU community, we sincerely thank the more than 4,200 donors who have given to Shape the Future.
“When I heard Shawnee Hall was reopening, I was ecstatic. It’s amazing to see how the OBU community came together to rebuild something so special. To me, Shawnee Hall is more than just a building – it’s a symbol of OBU’s strength, faith, and commitment to shaping the future.”
Caroline Chan Physiology | Freshman
“The Shawnee Hall renovations look amazing! I am genuinely excited for the new student lounge and can’t wait to take advantage of it for studying.
Daniel Joule Strategic Communications | Freshman
“When I saw the beautifully rebuilt Shawnee Hall for the first time, I was so impressed – it’s modern, welcoming, and a reflection of how OBU continues to grow while staying true to its mission. Every gift truly helps students like me pursue our calling to serve others, both here and around the world.”
Klaire Landham Nursing/Cross-Cultural Ministry | Sophomore
“I got a first-hand look at Shawnee Hall during The Weekend, and it’s absolutely stunning. The blend of historic brick walls with modern design is just what our campus needed. I can’t wait to take classes there and see how professors use the new technology and classrooms. My favorite part is the new auditorium – it will bring students and faculty together in such an exciting way.”
Isaiah Bottorff International Business | Sophomore
SHAWNEE HALL GRAND RE-OPENING
FOR 110 YEARS, SHAWNEE HALL has been more than just a building – it’s been a gateway to transformation for over 40,000 students who have walked its halls, dreamed big, and shaped the world. Today, thanks to your generosity and God’s provision, this beloved landmark has risen from the aftermath of the tornado as a state-ofthe-art facility, ready to welcome the next 40,000 Future Shapers. Its restoration is a testament to the enduring spirit of Bison Hill and the faithful partners who believe in the power of education rooted in Christ. You didn’t just rebuild a building – you reignited a legacy.
WHY WE GIVE TO OBU
“We have always wanted to help OBU thrive and enable the next generations of students to flourish as beneficiaries of a first-class education so they can powerfully and positively impact our world for Christ.”
Joe and Kay Henry
