Current Project
The Winning Spirit Campaign

A campaign which includes construction of a new wellness center, a new track complex, a baseball park, new intramural fields, and a new baseball/softball building.

You can view contruction progress by clicking on one of the images below.

A recent student survey showed the need for additional recreational and fitness training opportunities as one of OBU's greatest needs.

Reason for Need
In recent years, the number of students participating in varsity athletic programs doubled, further increasing the usage of the outdated Clark Craig Fieldhouse. Students participating in intramurals or individual recreational activities had access to Clark Craig only after varsity sports activities and classes were finished. Often, the time slots left available for student use were not conducive to recreational activities.

Clark Craig Fieldhouse originally served as a military recreational facility at Camp Maxey in Paris, Texas, during World War II. It was purchased, moved, and re-constructed on the OBU campus in 1948. After more than 56 years of use, the aging facility was razed in January 2006.

Benefits of New Facility
The new wellness center will meet the needs of the entire University community while enhancing the school's attractiveness to prospective students. More classrooms, new and more equipment, and sufficient space for exercise programs will increase participation in intramurals, recreational activities, and the wellness program.

Studies reveal that the top three buildings considered by students when making application to a school are: residence halls, student centers, and recreation/wellness centers. Many students who apply at OBU also apply at other universities which offer campuses with beautiful and modern recreational/wellness facilities. The new facility will greatly improve our capacity to develop the physical side of our students as well as provide more opportunities for our faculty, staff, and the local community to participate in physical fitness and recreational activities.

For information about supporting the campaign through a gift or to receive a detailed brochure, please contact the OBU Development Office at 405.878.2703.