The Weekend

Thursday, October 17

Women of Vision Annual Event

6 p.m.
Cargill Alumni Center

For current Women of Vision members and anyone who is interested in learning more about Women of Vision, this event is for you! Help us Shape the Future! We are all connected! Please join us for hors d’oeuvres and dinner and hear a very special message from Emily and Brittney Freeman. There will also be a performance by the National Champion OBU Dance team! Current members will have the opportunity to vote on our next WOV project. Pre-registration required. Event payment for non-members required.

6 p.m. — Reception and Proposal Review Opportunity
6:30 p.m. — Dinner and Program
7:30 p.m. — Voting for Current Members
8 p.m. — Event Concludes

Women of Vision Event Registration

Friday, October 18

The Weekend Registration Hub

8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Lower Level Geiger Center (GC)

This is your first stop whenever you arrive on campus for The Weekend! This is the main check-in and Information Hub for OBU alumni, friends and Family Weekend guests. Come pick up your nametags, free swag, connect with other guests, ask questions and stick around for events at the Hub during the day (see schedule for details).

Alumni College: Art Experience — Session #1

9 a.m.
Room 106, OBU Art Building

Join us for this Alumni College experience with OBU art professor, Corey Fuller, and learn some of the basics of the computer software used within the OBU Graphic Design program. No prior knowledge will be necessary. This will be a fun, interactive session and each participant will use an iMac as well as Adobe software. This is the first of two Art Experiences during The Weekend. Alumni College events are open to anyone...alumni, friends, parents, etc! Space is extremely limited due to classroom size. Pre-registration is required. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

Paul Dickinson School of Business Minter Lecture

10 a.m.
Tulsa Royalties Auditorium, 1st floor Bailey Business Center

Join current OBU students and alumni for the bi-annual Minter Lecture, presented by the Paul Dickinson School of Business. Special guest speaker and OBU Class of 1999 alumnus, Bryan Wilks, will speak on how God’s principles of design can help us push our limits, maintain a healthy balance, and foster personal growth. Seating is limited. No registration required.

James E. Hurley School of Science and Mathematics Forum

10 a.m.
Room 214, Stavros Hall

Paul Inman, OBU mathematics and physics graduate of 2014, will speak on his work to better understand radiation therapy by developing digital twins--patient computer models. This talk will cover the principles of radiation therapy, understanding DNA as a biological code, and how gambling helped make computer models of radiotherapy possible. Paul currently satisfies his scientific curiosity as a staff scientist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. No registration required.

Shape the Future Campaign Kick Off Event

11 a.m.
The Oval

OBU is launching a historic campaign this fall and we are kicking it off during The Weekend! Join President Thomas on The Oval in front of iconic Shawnee Hall to celebrate the start of this new era on Bison Hill! The OBU marching band, cheer and pom members and Shaz, as well as the OBU community and many local partners will be present. No registration required.

Shaz Live at the Hub

11:30 a.m.
The Weekend Registration Hub, Lower Level Geiger Center (GC)

Come see our favorite mascot at The Weekend Registration Hub! Shaz the Bison will be available to take pictures during this time! No registration required.

50+ Club Luncheon Inducting the Class of 1974

11:30 a.m.
Rooms 219-220, Upper Geiger Center (GC)

We welcome all current 50+ Club members to this annual luncheon as we honor the Class of 1964 and induct the Class of 1974, in this, their 50th anniversary year! Members of the Class of 1964 will receive their 60 year pins and members of the Class of 1974 will receive their 50 year pins. Join President Thomas and your fellow classmates for lunch, memories, photos and a pinning ceremony. Pre-registration and payment are required. Use The Weekend Events Registration Link above and choose “50+ Club Luncheon” to register or you can call our office at 405.585.5413 to make reservations.

Class of 1974 Reception

1 p.m.
Room 214, Upper Geiger Center (GC)

After the 50+ Club Luncheon, keep the conversations and memories flowing with a time of reception and reminiscing! This reception will be exclusively for members of the Class of 1974. Coffee and cookies will be available. No registration required.

Class of 1964 Reception

1 p.m.
Room 213, Upper Geiger Center (GC)

After the 50+ Club Luncheon, keep the conversations and memories flowing with a time of reception and reminiscing! This reception will be exclusively for members of the Class of 1964. Coffee and cookies will be available. No registration required.

University Culture Event

1 p.m.
The Weekend Registration Hub, Lower Level Geiger Center (GC)

Come hear from President Heath Thomas and B.J. Glover, Vice President for University Culture, on “Straight from the Horse’s Mouth: Kingdom Diversity on Bison Hill". All alumni, friends and parents are invited to learn more about what OBU is doing in the diversity space and are encouraged to bring any diversity-related questions you have. No registration required.

Worship Service

2 p.m.
Cargill Alumni Center Backyard

Make plans to attend the 10th annual Homecoming Worship Service, which will be “tent-revival” style in the backyard of the Cargill Alumni Center.  This event will be led by Jason Henson, '95 and will feature a number of alumni. Classic hymns and other songs will be led in this time of praise. Don’t miss this time-honored event! No registration required.

Alumni College: Engineering Experience — Session #1

2 p.m.
1st Floor Thurmond Hall

Join OBU engineering program director, Dr. Chuck Baukal, for this Alumni College experience in the new engineering lab! This will be an interactive hour of hands-on activities that our freshman engineering students experience within the program as well. Activities will include the opportunity to work in groups to dismantle basic household appliances and then reassemble them, all while learning more about this exciting new program at OBU. This is the first of two Engineering Experiences offered during The Weekend. Alumni College events are open to anyone...alumni, friends, parents, etc! Space is limited due to classroom size. Pre-registration is required. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

Alumni College: Photography Experience — Session #1

2 p.m.
Room 180, Sarkeys Center

Join us for this Alumni College experience where OBU Professor Ben Baxter will walk you through some of the basics of a one light studio setup and how to shape the light with a standard umbrella. Using each other as models, we will take pictures of each other and then go to the lab for post processing in Adobe Lightroom. Finally, we will export, and everyone will get their images to keep! All equipment provided by OBU. This is the first of two Photography Experiences Professor Baxter will lead during The Weekend. Alumni College events are open to anyone...alumni, friends, parents, etc! Space is extremely limited due to classroom and studio size. Pre-registration required. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

Mortar Board Reunion

3 p.m.
Room 212, Upper Geiger Center (GC)

Mortar Board Alumni are invited to join us for a reception to regale their time in this group and participate in a time of fellowship. Light refreshments will be served. No registration required.

Alumni College: Art Experience — Session #2

3 p.m.
Room 180, Sarkeys Center

Join us for this Alumni College experience where OBU art professor, Joshua Brunet, will help you learn some of the basics of digital painting with a drawing tablet. No prior knowledge is necessary. This will be an interactive course, and each participant will use an iMac and Adobe software. This is the second of two Art Experiences during The Weekend. Alumni College events are open to anyone...alumni, friends, parents, etc! Space is extremely limited due to lab size. Pre-registration is required. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

University Culture Panel Discussion

3 p.m.
The Weekend Registration Hub, Lower Level Geiger Center (GC)

B.J. Glover, Vice President for University Culture, will facilitate a lively and engaging panel discussion featuring OBU alums of color who will share stories of success and resilience related to their Bison Hill experiences. Alumni, friends, parents and anyone else are invited to hear about their personal journeys, achievements, victories over challenges and lessons learned. No registration required.

Honors Program Reunion

3 p.m.
Stavros Hall, 2nd floor

Come visit with OBU Honors alumni and friends, and meet current Honors students over light refreshments. Beginning at 3:30 pm, hear a stimulating presentation from our distinguished OBU Honors alumnus Dr. Eric Barreto of Princeton Seminary. Dr. Barreto is being honored with a Profile in Excellence alumni award at the Harvest Dinner later in the day. After his presentation, we welcome guests to visit the Honors Suite (MLC 320-321). No registration required.

Faculty Hall of Fame

3:30 p.m.
Cargill Alumni Center

Dr. James Woodward (posthumously) and Dr. Norris Russell, both previous OBU faculty, will be inducted into the Faculty Hall of Fame during this ceremony. Come help us celebrate these well-deserving individuals. Light refreshments will be served. No registration required.

Career Connections: Language and Literature

4 p.m.
Room 213, Upper Geiger Center (GC)

This event will bring OBU Language and Literature alumni together to share their career paths, giving our current students the opportunity to learn about the various ways that studying English, Creating Writing, English Education, Spanish TESOL or Professional Writing and Editing has impacted OBU graduates. All alumni, current students and friends are welcome! No registration required.

Alumni College: Engineering Experience — Session #2

4 p.m.
1st Floor Thurmond Hall

Join OBU engineering program director, Dr. Chuck Baukal, for this Alumni College experience in the new engineering lab! This will be an interactive hour of hands on activities that our freshman engineering students experience within the program as well. Activities will include the opportunity to work in groups to dismantle basic household appliances and then reassemble them, all while learning more about this exciting new program at OBU. This is the second of two Engineering Experiences offered during The Weekend. Alumni College events are open to anyone....alumni, friends, parents, etc! Space is limited due to classroom size. Pre-registration is required. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

Alumni Award Winners Reception

4:30 p.m.
Room 212-213, Upper Geiger Center (GC)

This is an opportunity for our Alumni Achievement, Profiles in Excellence and Graduate of the Last Decade award winners to gather for a time of reception and photos with their invited friends and families ahead of Harvest Dinner. This event is by invitation only.

Harvest Court 

5 p.m.
The Gathering Room, Lower Level Geiger Center (GC)

This is the traditional dinner for Harvest Court candidates and their families. Harvest Court candidates will be recognized during the football game halftime show on Saturday, with the King and Queen announced. This event is by invitation only.

Harvest Dinner

5:30 p.m.
Rooms 219-220, Upper Geiger Center (GC)

You won't want to miss this annual homecoming dinner where our Alumni Achievement, Profiles in Excellence and the Graduate of the Last Decade awards are presented. This event is open to all alumni and friends. Pre-registration and payment required. Use The Weekend Events Registration Link above and select “Harvest Dinner” to register.

Fun on the Oval

6 p.m.
The Oval

This will be a time for current students and their families to come together on the Oval to enjoy games and treats and the opportunity to connect during Family Weekend. You can also enjoy a beautiful fall evening on Bison Hill! Alumni are also welcome to attend—many do! Pre-Registration required. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

Musical Gala

7:30 p.m.
The Recreation and Wellness Center (RAWC)

Due to ongoing repairs and construction in Raley Chapel, this year’s Musical Gala will be held in the RAWC. The performance will feature the Bison Glee Club, University Ringers, Chorale, Bisonette Glee Club and Theater. Pre-registration requested. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

Bison Pep Rally

8:45 p.m.
The Noble Complex Gym

Come get fired up to cheer on the Bison as they prepare to take on the NWOSU Rangers on Saturday! The OBU cheer squads, mascot, marching band and football team members will all be present! No registration required.

Ice Cream Social

9 p.m.
Lower Level Geiger Center (GC)

Don't miss this favorite tradition! Enjoy ice cream and fellowship as we end a great day on Bison Hill! All alumni, current students and families are welcome to attend! Ice cream will be served while supplies last. No registration required.

Saturday, October 19

The Weekend Registration Hub

8:30–11:30 a.m.
Lower Level Geiger Center (GC)

If you haven't checked in yet with us or you are arriving today on campus, please make this your first stop of the day! This is the main check in and Information Hub for OBU Alumni, Friends and Family Weekend participants. Come pick up your nametag, free swag, ask questions and connect with other guests. At 11:30 a.m., staff will move to the Oval to continue check in there ahead of the BBQ on the Oval at noon.

Family Weekend Worship and Fellowship

9 a.m.
The Gathering Room, Lower Level Geiger Center (GC)

Current students, families, and alumni are invited to gather for a time of worship to start your Saturday. Come be encouraged and hear about the exciting things happening in Student Ministry/Discipleship on Bison Hill. Continental breakfast, coffee, juice, water will be available. Pre-registration required. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

Alumni College: Business Experience

9 a.m.
Dr. Peggy D. Keck Finance and Business Analytics Lab, 1st floor Bailey Business Center

Join us for this Alumni College classroom experience in the new Keck Finance and Business Analytics Lab as we explore the intersection of faith and business in 'Faith in the Marketplace.' This interactive session will reveal how many of the foundational principles of business ethics are rooted in the Imago Dei and teachings of Scripture, often unknowingly to the secular marketplace. Discover how OBU students are being equipped to integrate their Christian values with their work, making a meaningful impact in their careers and communities as future shapers. Dr. B.R. Dunk, Class of 2001 and a member of the School of Business faculty, will be conducting this session. Alumni College events are open to anyone...alumni, friends, parents, etc! Space is extremely limited due to lab space size. Pre-registration is required. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

Planetarium Adventures — Session #1

9 a.m.
OBU Planetarium, Room 108, Wood Science Building

Come join us at the first of two events today in OBU’s planetarium for adventures in space! Take a tour of the night sky. Learn to find stars and constellations from any place on the globe. This event is a great opportunity for parents and children but is open to anyone! Space is limited to 24 guests each session. Pre-registration is required. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

Alumni College: Photography Experience — Session #2

10 a.m.
Room 180, Sarkeys Center

Join us for this Alumni College experience where OBU Professor Ben Baxter will walk you through some of the basics of a one light studio setup and how to shape the light with a standard umbrella.  Using each other as models, we will take pictures of each other and then go to the lab for post processing in Adobe Lightroom. Finally, we will export, and everyone will get their images to keep! All equipment provided by OBU. This is the second of two Photography Experiences Professor Baxter will lead during The Weekend. Alumni College events are open to anyone...alumni, friends, parents, etc! Space is extremely limited due to classroom and studio size. Pre-registration required. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

OBU Division of Behavioral Sciences “Beyond the Hill”

10 a.m.
Mabee Learning Center (Library) Lobby

This event will allow OBU Behavioral Sciences alumni to share their career paths, giving our current students the opportunity to learn about the various ways that studying psychology, sociology, family science and criminal justice has impacted OBU graduates. All alumni, current students, parents and families are welcome to attend! No registration required.

James E. Hurley School of Science and Mathematics Reunion

10 a.m.
Wood Science Building Lobby

The Hurley School of Science and Mathematics faculty would like to meet with science and math alumni on campus for the Weekend. Science and Math clubs will be providing light snacks and coffee. Any alumni, parents or current students are welcome! No registration required.

Shape the Future Campaign Address with President Heath A. Thomas

10:30 a.m.
Rooms 219-220, Upper Geiger Center (GC)

Come hear an in-depth presentation by President Thomas about the “Shape the Future” campaign and how everyone from current students, parents, alumni and friends can be involved in this new era on Bison Hill. President Thomas will also be available to answer questions and provide additional campus updates. No registration required.

Residential Halls Open House

10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
WMU, Kerr and Agee Dorms

This come-and-go timeframe is dedicated to providing tours and information about each of OBU's residential halls. OBU staff will be on hand to take you to your former room (based on availability) and answer questions about residential life. All alumni are welcome to participate! No registration required.

Bison Soccer Alumni Game

11 a.m.
OBU Soccer Field

OBU alumni and friends! Come cheer on former OBU soccer athletes as they compete against each other in this special alumni soccer game! No registration required.

Class of 1969 Nursing Reunion

11 a.m.
Room 111, Stavros Hall

Members of the Class of 1969 who graduated with a nursing degree are welcome to attend this informal gathering at Stavros Hall, home to OBU's School of Nursing. No registration required.

Alumni Decades Reunions/Family Weekend BBQ

12 p.m.
The Oval

Alumni, current students and their families, as well as friends of the university and the Shawnee community are invited to enjoy a BBQ lunch, live music and the Art on the Hill Festival. Decade reunions will gather in designated areas as we enjoy the fall weather on our beautiful Bison Hill. There will also be a “Kids Zone” area with lawn games, inflatables and face-painting, sponsored by ODK! Current students will be able to swipe and join this event with their meal plan cards. Any other guests will need to buy tickets, preferably ahead of the event. Registration and payment required. Use The Weekend Events Registration Link above and select “Alumni Decades/Family Weekend BBQ” to register.

Bison Day

12 p.m.
The Oval and Recreation and Wellness Center (RAWC)

Bison Day offers a look at life on Bison Hill for prospective students, who will have the opportunity to explore campus and engage with current students. Bison Day will begin with lunch at the Alumni Decades/Family Weekend BBQ on The Oval. Look for the Admissions Tent to check in and be directed to special seating at the BBQ. After lunch, you will head to the Recreation and Wellness Center (RAWC) for additional programming and experiences. OBU alumni on campus for The Weekend, if you have the opportunity, tell these prospective students what Bison Hill means to you! Pre-registration is required for this event and lunch is included for Bison Day participants. Use the Bison Day Registration Link above to register for this event.

Art on the Hill Festival

12–3 p.m.
The Oval

Come shop and explore what local artists and vendors create, many of whom are OBU alumni! This is a wonderful way to “shop local” and support fellow alumni artisans and do some early Christmas shopping! No registration required.

Open Houses

1–3 p.m.
Various OBU Buildings

There is a lot happening on Bison Hill to renew, restore and renovate facilities! During this timeframe, you can walk through the first floor of Thurmond Hall, which has been renovated to house the new engineering program at OBU and meet our engineering faculty and students. Wood Science building, Sarkeys Center and the Bailey Business Center have all had recent renovations and will be open to see the new spaces. Eat at the BBQ and then take a stroll through these buildings! No registration required.

Planetarium Adventures — Session #2

2 p.m.
OBU Planetarium, Room 108, Wood Science Building

Come join us at the second of two events today in OBU’s planetarium for adventures in space! Take a tour of the night sky. Learn to find stars and constellations from any place on the globe. This event is a great opportunity for parents and children but is open to anyone! Space is limited to 24 guests each session. Pre-registration is required. Use The Weekend Events Registration link above to register.

Bison Soccer vs. Northwestern Oklahoma State University

2 p.m.
OBU Soccer Field

Come cheer on the Bison Soccer team and enjoy the fall weather on Bison Hill! Alumni game participants will be recognized at halftime. Free admission is available to anyone who wants to come! No registration required.

Bison Bash Tailgate

4 p.m.
OBU Intramural Fields

Come hang out and mingle at the Bison Bash Tailgate, where the OBU and Shawnee communities will be represented! Food, drink, goodies, giveaways, lawn games and connections will be had. You can also get a spontaneous volleyball game started on the sand courts! See the OBU Marching Band, Shaz and the OBU cheer teams as we all gear up to cheer on the Bison in the Homecoming football game! This event is open to anyone who wants to come and enjoy! No registration required.

Want to participate with your own tailgate? Register at the Bison Bash Tailgate Registration Link above.

Bison Football vs. Northwestern Oklahoma State University

6 p.m.
Hurt Memorial Track Complex and Bison Football Field

Come cheer on the Bison as they battle the NWOSU Rangers! You can enjoy special presentations, the crowning of our Harvest King and Queen and halftime fireworks (weather and city permitting). Go Bison! Purchase football tickets by visiting the OBU Athletics website.