Kingdom Diversity is an institutional priority on Bison Hill and is defined as valuing people from all nations, kindreds, peoples, and tongues as described in Revelation 7:9.
At OBU, we earnestly seek to foster a culture of Kingdom Diversity through awareness, education and an understanding of individuals' similarities and a joint respect for our God-given differences. We celebrate God's creation of all people made in His image and desire to embrace and champion His intentional design of Kingdom Diversity.
Through the newly established Walter O. Mason, Jr. Kingdom Diversity Hall of Fame, we created a platform to publicly honor individuals whose personal and/or professional efforts and activities engender this demonstration of Kingdom Diversity. In April of 2024, we were pleased to present our inaugural Hall of Fame inductee award to Ycedra Daughty, a 45-year career educator and school administrator whose leadership impacted communities and who transformed the lives of students in three inner city schools.
Learn more about our inaugural award winner, Ycedra Daughty.
This annual award recognizes individuals who are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others, and whose efforts reflect a consistent display of Kingdom Diversity within their sphere of influence. Each year, OBU will honor the Walter O. Mason, Jr. Kingdom Diversity Hall of Fame inductee at a live recognition event. Additionally, the winner will receive a personalized trophy and a $1,000 cash award.
Award and Nomination Information
To be nominated, a candidate must have a current or former relationship with OBU as a student, faculty member, adjunct professor, administrator, staff member or contractor.
Any individual or organization may nominate an eligible candidate who meets the stated qualifications. The nominator is not required to have any affiliation with OBU; only the nominee must meet that requirement.
The ideal candidate should be characterized by the following attributes:
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has made a significant, positive difference in the community, in a specific organization, or in the lives of disenfranchised people (i.e., racial/ethnic minorities, the poor or otherwise disenfranchised persons)
- models a pattern of dedication or service to others, particularly members of marginalized groups
- is a change agent who has engendered conditions for positive change to manifest in Kingdom Diversity
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demonstrates Christian character in everyday life
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exemplifies excellence in their chosen field, profession, academic or civic pursuits, or other honorable endeavors
- Complete the online form or contact B.J. Glover at beverly.glover@okbu.edu or 405.323.2940.
- Provide at least one, but no more than three, names and email addresses of individuals whom we can contact to affirm and support your nomination.
- Submit the form for receipt by November 30, 2024.
Members of the Kingdom Diversity Hall of Fame Sub-committee will select the winner.
The award will be presented on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 3:00 pm on the OBU campus. The award presentation and reception will be open to the public at no charge; however, reservations will be required.
- November 30: Deadline for nominations to be submitted electronically or through mail
- December 3: Winner is notified
- January 18, 2025: Awards event held