Introduction
Oral Roberts University (ORU) is a Christian liberal arts university located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The university was founded in 1963 by Oral Roberts, a well-known televangelist and faith healer. ORU has a unique history and several interesting facts that make it stand out from other universities. In this post, we will explore some of the fun and fascinating facts about Oral Roberts University.
Fun facts about Oral Roberts University
The unique architecture of ORU’s campus
One of the most striking features of ORU’s campus is its unique architecture. The university’s founder, Oral Roberts, was known for his interest in modern architecture, and he wanted the campus to reflect his vision of a futuristic, faith-based community. The buildings on ORU’s campus are a testament to his unique vision.
The most iconic building on ORU’s campus is the Prayer Tower. The tower stands at 200 feet tall and is visible from almost anywhere on campus. It features a large cross at the top, which is illuminated at night. The tower is open to the public and offers a stunning view of the surrounding area.
Another notable building on campus is the Learning Resource Center (LRC), also known as the “Egg.” The LRC is a circular building that is covered in gold-tinted glass. The building houses the university’s library, classrooms, and study spaces. The unique design of the LRC has won several awards and has been featured in numerous architectural publications.
ORU’s emphasis on global outreach
Oral Roberts University has a strong emphasis on global outreach and mission work. The university encourages students to engage in outreach programs and offers several opportunities for students to travel and serve around the world.
One of the most notable programs at ORU is the Whole Person Scholarship. This program offers full-tuition scholarships to students who commit to spending their summers engaged in mission work. The scholarship recipients are required to participate in at least two mission trips during their time at ORU. This program not only provides financial support to students but also encourages them to make a positive impact on the world.
ORU also has several partnerships with organizations around the world, including the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem and the United Nations. These partnerships provide students with opportunities to engage in international diplomacy and gain valuable experience in global affairs.
The famous alumni of ORU
Over the years, Oral Roberts University has produced several notable alumni who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
One of the most famous alumni of ORU is Joel Osteen, a prominent televangelist and author. Osteen is the pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, one of the largest churches in the United States. He has written several best-selling books and has been featured on numerous television programs.
Another notable alumni of ORU is Kathie Lee Gifford, a television host, and actress. Gifford is best known for her work on the morning talk show “Live with Regis and Kathie Lee.” She has also appeared in several films and television shows throughout her career.
The unique programs offered at ORU
Oral Roberts University offers several unique programs that are not found at other universities. These programs reflect the university’s commitment to faith-based education and its emphasis on whole-person development.
One of the most unique programs at ORU is the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This program combines traditional nursing coursework with courses in theology and ministry. The program prepares students to provide compassionate, holistic care to patients and to serve as spiritual leaders in healthcare settings.
ORU also offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in International Business and Ministry. This program combines coursework in business administration with courses in theology and cross-cultural communication. The program prepares students to work in global business environments and to serve as leaders in ministry settings around the world.
Another unique program at ORU is the Bachelor of Music in Worship Leadership. This program combines traditional music coursework with courses in theology and worship leadership. The program prepares students to lead worship services in churches and other faith-based settings.
The university’s commitment to athletics
Oral Roberts University has a strong commitment to athletics and is known for its successful sports programs. The university is a member of the Summit League and competes in several sports, including basketball, soccer, and baseball.
The men’s basketball team at ORU has had several successful seasons in recent years. In 2021, the team made it to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, making it the first time in school history that the team had advanced that far in the tournament.
In addition to its NCAA sports programs, ORU also has several intramural sports teams, including flag football, soccer, and ultimate frisbee. These programs provide students with opportunities to stay active and to build relationships with their peers.
The university’s commitment to sustainability
Oral Roberts University is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The university’s sustainability efforts are rooted in its Christian faith and its belief in responsible stewardship of the earth.
One of the most notable sustainability initiatives at ORU is the use of geothermal heating and cooling systems. The university has several buildings on campus that are heated and cooled using geothermal energy, which is a renewable source of energy that reduces the university’s reliance on fossil fuels.
ORU also has several community gardens on campus that are maintained by students and staff. The gardens provide fresh produce for the campus dining hall and promote sustainable food practices.
Conclusion
Oral Roberts University is a unique and fascinating institution that has a rich history and several interesting facts. From its unique architecture to its commitment to global outreach, ORU stands out from other universities. Its notable alumni, unique programs, commitment to athletics, and sustainability initiatives make it a special place.