Oklahoma Baptist University

Oklahoma Baptist University, established in 1910, is a private institution deeply rooted in its motto, "Eruditione Religioneque Veritas" (Truth Through Scholarship and Religion). Led by President Heath Thomas, OBU fosters a close-knit academic community for its 1,514 students. With a substantial endowment of $0.1 billion, the university is committed to providing a holistic educational experience that blends rigorous academics with strong Christian values, preparing students for lives of service and leadership.

The university's history began in 1906 when the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma envisioned a co-educational Baptist university. After careful planning, Shawnee was chosen as its home in 1910, marking the start of a rich legacy. Early campus development saw the construction of iconic buildings like Shawnee Hall and Montgomery Hall, and the resilience of the institution was tested during challenges such as the Great Depression and even an unusual airplane incident in 1964, which Shawnee Hall remarkably survived.

Over the decades, OBU has experienced significant growth and evolution. Enrollment soared past 2,000 in 1989, reaching a record of 2,440 by 1994. The campus itself expanded considerably, growing from 125 to 200 acres, providing enhanced facilities for its student body. In 2007, OBU further extended its academic reach with the opening of its International Graduate School in Oklahoma City, offering a Master's of Business Administration, demonstrating its commitment to advanced education.