Shawnee, Okla. – Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) kicked off the fall semester this week with newly renovated facilities, marking the first full academic year since the campus was struck by a devastating tornado in April 2023. The university’s historic Shawnee Hall, originally built in 1915, has been fully restored and repurposed as a state‑of‑the‑art behavioral health and social sciences center, while its exterior retains the classic brick façade that alumni recognize.
Preserving Heritage, Building the Future
President Heath Thomas highlighted the dual focus of the project: honoring OBU’s legacy and equipping students for tomorrow’s challenges. “This building is where OBU began. It has seen every generation of students walk its halls. Restoring it preserves our history, but the modern interior prepares our students for the future,” Thomas said.
Thomas added that the university’s broader renovation plan aims to make all campus spaces “world‑class, completely up to date and flexible for the future,” ensuring that graduates leave with both a solid academic foundation and the character traits valued by employers.
Student Reactions
Students expressed enthusiasm for the upgraded classrooms and communal areas. “The interior is beautiful – the art, the bison mural, the alma mater displayed on the wall – it really lifts our spirits,” said Celeste Musani, student body vice president.
Terrance Allen, president of the student body, praised faculty involvement, noting that “our professors don’t shy away from our struggles; they walk with us through hard moments and help us grow.”
Other Campus Projects
In addition to Shawnee Hall, Thurmond Hall, now home to engineering and computer‑science programs, has been repaired and modernized. Raley Chapel, described by Thomas as the “spiritual heart” of the campus, remains under restoration with completion expected by fall 2027. “Raley reminds us of our purpose – to love God and love those around us,” Thomas said.
Faith‑Forward Education
OBU continues to promote a faith‑forward educational model, which Thomas says “fast‑forwards careers by shaping students with high integrity, strong character, and a solid work ethic.” The university believes that this approach makes its graduates highly sought after in the job market.
With the renovations complete and the campus buzzing with renewed energy, OBU looks forward to another year of academic excellence rooted in Christian values and community service.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
