A Milestone Day at OBU That is Sure to Shape the Future

April 23, 2026

A steady stream of students and families, 878 people in all, moved across the Oklahoma Baptist University campus to complete their final steps toward enrollment during Priority Enrollment Day on Saturday. With so many in attendance, an annual step in the admissions process turned into something closer to a milestone.

By the end of the day, 330 future Bison had done more than claim a spot for the Fall 2026. They had built class schedules, met professors and taken an early step into the kind of campus experience the university believes will shape not just their first semester but their future beyond.

The event drew a record turnout as students and families spent the day on campus engaging directly with faculty and staff, building schedules and preparing for the transition to college life. Approximately 300 faculty, staff and students assisted with the event.

“Priority Enrollment Day represents strong momentum and growing confidence in Oklahoma Baptist University,” said Scott Hannigan, vice president of enrollment strategy. “It was more than a record-setting event. It’s a clear sign that students and families are not only choosing OBU but are excited to take the next step. Seeing hundreds of future students on campus, meeting faculty, building class schedules and experiencing the community firsthand reflects a deep sense of connection and anticipation.”

Hannigan said the day reflected more than attendance figures, pointing instead to what the experience represents for students and families.

“Moments like this show that OBU is delivering an experience that resonates—one where students feel known, supported and prepared for what comes next,” he said.

He also pointed to what this year’s participation suggests about the university’s direction.

“This year’s event points to a very positive trajectory for OBU,” Hannigan said. “The strong turnout and energy on campus reflect a university that is growing with purpose. OBU’s focus on academic quality, personal attention and a faith-forward mission is clearly connecting with today’s students and families.”

Hannigan said the incoming class is already showing distinct characteristics as they begin the enrollment process.

“This incoming class is marked by a high level of academic achievement, engagement and intentionality,” he said. “Students are arriving on campus prepared, asking thoughtful questions and eager to connect with faculty and staff. There is a noticeable excitement about being part of the OBU community, along with a strong desire to grow academically, personally and spiritually.”

 “We are also seeing students who are drawn to OBU’s mission, seeking not just a degree, but a meaningful college experience that prepares them for their future careers and their broader purpose.”

He said early campus engagement plays a key role in helping students prepare for their first semester.

“Experiences like Priority Enrollment Day help students begin their college journey with confidence,” he said. “By building their class schedules, meeting professors and spending time on campus early, students gain clarity about what their first semester will look like. That early connection helps ease the transition to college and allows students to feel at home long before classes begin.”

This year’s Priority Enrollment Day reflects continued engagement among admitted students, with 60% of committed students completing the enrollment experience so far. Last year, 267 students participated compared to the 330 students of this year’s event.

Students who attended represented a wide geographic reach, including Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Kansas, Minnesota, Georgia, Colorado and California.

Hannigan also said participation levels are a strong indicator of trust in the university.

“Record-setting participation is a powerful indicator of trust,” Hannigan said. “That level of engagement reflects confidence in OBU’s people, programs and overall experience. It shows that students and parents believe in what OBU offers not just academically, but in the way the university supports and prepares students for life beyond college.”