As I sit here in my office in the Cargill Advancement and Alumni Center, I find myself reflecting on this past year. I feel grateful for the privilege I have to serve in my role at OBU. It has been inspiring to continue learning more about this historic university and the important impact OBU has played in our state’s history. We have a rich and storied history of success as a respected institution of higher education.
My reflections help me realize the importance of connecting with those who have been a part of our valued history, and those who will be a part of our future. Our connections and relationships with alumni, donors and friends of OBU are vital in providing increased opportunities to our current and future students and to all members of the OBU community.
The start of 2022 has proven to be an exciting time on our campus! We are well on our way in implementing bold and strategic steps based on a visionary initiative launched by our president, Dr. Heath A. Thomas, last fall. Dr. Thomas’ unveiling of the Multiply Strategy has established specific and measurable goals for each area of our university.
I can affirm the Office of University Advancement and Alumni is actively engaged in this strategy and is excited about what awaits us! It is incumbent upon us to find additional engagement opportunities with those who strive to support OBU and enhance the student experience. In order to reach our fullest potential, it will take a corporate effort, extended by all of us, to optimize these connection points.
We are upgrading opportunities for alumni engagement with a collection of new programs, events and activities. With this goal in mind, we recognize our outstanding alumni and donor base who desire more opportunities to become involved with OBU. We are passionate about creating more avenues for them to engage together and to give back in a variety of ways that include volunteering their time, influence and financial resources.
This past year, our team members have enjoyed touring the state of Oklahoma and other regional areas as Dr. Thomas has been invited to preach and speak at various churches and events. We are grateful for all who have joined us there or who have attended activities through our Bison Connection events. We look forward to continuing to connect with you through these events as we enlarge the scope of our active OBU alumni and friends network.
One program of significant importance is the OBU Annual Fund. We are increasing our focus for this program because it provides the greatest avenue for supporting OBU and elevating the excellent opportunities for our students, faculty and staff. Giving to this program on an annual basis helps us fulfill scholarships for students and offer support throughout campus. Gifts of every amount collectively bring together our alumni, friends and donors to provide a distinct difference by enhancing our university. Please review the information offered in this issue of the magazine and look for upcoming details about our special Day of Giving to be launched in April.
As you can see, our emphasis on outreach and connection is important for our growth as a university. We are excited about the increasing number of opportunities for our alumni to participate and support OBU. In whatever way you have contributed in the past or seek to contribute in the future, we say thank you. Every connection and contribution makes a difference!
We look forward to continuing to serve you and the entirety of the OBU community. We ask for your continued prayers and support as we strive to make a difference for OBU and for the Kingdom of God.
Respectfully,
Tim Rasnic
Vice President for University Advancement