Oral Roberts University

Oral Roberts University (ORU) stands out as a vibrant private university, founded in 1963 with a unique vision to educate "the whole man"—Mind, Spirit, Body. Born from evangelist Oral Roberts' obedience to a divine mandate, ORU was established to raise students who would hear God's voice and carry His light and healing power to the uttermost bounds of the earth. This profound mission shapes every aspect of the university, fostering an environment where spiritual growth is as central as academic excellence.

The campus, inaugurated in 1965 with 300 students, rapidly developed iconic structures like the central Prayer Tower, a $2 million architectural marvel completed in 1967 despite initial concerns about accreditation. This commitment to prayer and spiritual focus, exemplified by the tower and Roberts' call for fasting, highlights the distinctive student experience at ORU, where faith is seamlessly integrated into learning and daily life. The university's dedication ceremony in 1967 featured Billy Graham as keynote speaker, underscoring its significant standing in the evangelical world.

ORU achieved accreditation from the North Central Association (now the Higher Learning Commission) in 1971, affirming its academic rigor. The first decade saw the completion of many essential buildings, including the Howard Auditorium, the Graduate Center, the Mabee Center, and Christ's Chapel, providing state-of-the-art facilities for its growing student body. While the O. W. Coburn School of Law had a brief existence, ORU continues to offer a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for global impact.