ORU Celebrates 10 Years of Billy Wilson’s ‘Transformative Leadership’

Since Dr. Billy Wilson took office as Oral Roberts University’s fourth president in June 2013, the Christian university not only has continued its commitment to excellence in education, but it has seen a great deal of positive growth toward a bright future.

Wilson’s “unwavering commitment” to innovation and global engagement has positioned ORU as a leader of higher education not only in the Christian community but also across America. Wilson says he is profoundly appreciative of the dedicated community that has helped ORU achieve historic levels of enrollment, advancement and academic success.

“The past 10 years have been an extraordinary journey and launched the beginning of ORU’s global expansion,” Wilson says. “I am deeply humbled and grateful for all of those who have contributed their gifts, time and talent to ORU. This university is unlike any other university, with the best faculty in the world and staff who serve our students unselfishly.

“Our students come from all 50 states and around the world, drawn to our academic excellence and desiring to develop as whole leaders. In the last 10 years, ORU has made history; in the years to come, our students will continue to change the world.”

During Wilson’s tenure, ORU has invested over $170 million in new buildings and renovation. The university opened four new buildings debt-free, funded in part by the university’s $50 million 50th Anniversary campaign.

Those buildings include:

— The Global Learning Center—a 54,00-square-foot technology hub.

— The Niko Njotorahardjo Hall—a residence hall.

— A Nursing and Engineering Complex—a 100,000-square-foot venue.

— ONEOK Sports Complex—One of Tulsa’s top collegiate track and tennis facilities.

Wilson also launched the “Whole Leaders for the Whole World” campaign, a funding initiative to support new construction and scholarships. {eoa}

Shawn A. Akers is the online editor at Charisma Media.