Smallwood To Head University Advancement

Will Smallwood has been named vice president for university advancement at Oklahoma Baptist University. Smallwood started at OBU May 10, after serving as director of development for The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky.

"OBU has a rich and strong advancement legacy. Will Smallwood will build upon that tradition and will lead our development initiatives into our second century," said Dr. Stan Norman, OBU provost and executive vice president for campus life. "His background in business and development will enhance our already strong development team. Will brings a calling and a passion for development in Christian higher education that will greatly benefit Oklahoma Baptist University. I am confident that friends, donors and alumni will come to appreciate his servant-heart and passion for Christian liberal arts.

Among his accomplishments as director of development at Southern Seminary, Smallwood secured a $1 million gift for the James P. Boyce Library renovation project, developed a new donor base in strategic cities, increased the total foundation board members by 18 with annual average gifts of more than $15,000 each, and co-developed and managed the campaign to increase giving during the seminary's sesquicentennial year. He had served as the seminary's development director since July 2006.

Smallwood served as pastor of West Broadway Baptist Church in Louisville from March 2007 to May 2009. He previously worked as a sales consultant for StorterChilds Printing Company in Gainesville, Fla., for five years.

A native of Ocala, Fla., Smallwood earned a bachelor's degree in public relations from the University of Florida. He earned a master's degree in theology from Southern Seminary, where he is pursuing a doctorate in biblical spirituality.

"I am extremely thrilled to join the Oklahoma Baptist University family," Smallwood said. "I am overwhelmed by a great sense of joy and humility for the opportunity to serve our Lord Jesus Christ, the Bison Nation (it's everywhere!), and Oklahoma Baptists in this crucial role."

Smallwood serves as the university's chief development officer and advises OBU President David Whitlock on management and operation of university development, as well as donor relations. He also directs the university's programs in resource development and alumni.

"I am excited to stand on Bison Hill with President Whitlock, Dr. Norman and the entire administration in fulfilling the mission and vision of OBU 2020," Smallwood said. "With this vision, I know God will continue to provide to OBU as we look to make an impact in this world for the Kingdom of God through Christian higher education."

Announced in the fall of 2009, OBU 2020 is a vision plan which includes a statement of the institution's core values, articulates seven strategic initiatives and offers a visionary glimpse of a new campus master plan. OBU 2020 was developed through a collaborative effort by university personnel, drawing from the work of two faculty/staff task forces which addressed OBU's core values and conducted an environmental scan to assess strengths and opportunities for the University.