Built for Impact
How OKWU’s Online DBA Empowered a College President
As president of a growing college, Dr. Gregory Nichols needed more than theory—OKWU’s online DBA gave him the faith-driven foundation to lead with vision and heart.
When Dr. Nichols began his Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) journey at Oklahoma Wesleyan University, he wasn’t just earning another credential—he was stepping deeper into his calling to lead with wisdom, integrity, and faith.
Already serving as President of Salina Area Technical College in Kansas, Nichols carried the weight of responsibility for students, faculty, and a growing institution. But what drew him to OKWU was something more than convenience or curriculum. It was the authentic integration of Christian faith into every part of the learning experience.
OKWU and its people made the difference in my success
“He was a natural fit for our DBA program,” says Dr. Stacey Duke, one of Nichols’ professors and mentors at OKWU. “Greg didn’t just want information; he wanted transformation—personally, professionally, and spiritually.”
Through weekly Thursday Night Live virtual class discussions, many late study nights, and countless papers, Nichols modeled what it means to be a lifelong learner. Even amid the pressures of leading a college, he approached his studies with humility, curiosity, and an eagerness to immediately apply what he was learning to his leadership role.
OKWU’s business programs focus beyond textbooks by incorporating real-world applications rooted in biblical values. As Dr. Duke often says, “Leadership isn’t about titles. It’s about the impact you have on the lives around you.” Nichols lives that out as he pushes himself to become the kind of leader who multiplies that impact for his college, his community, and beyond.
His journey wasn’t without obstacles. Balancing executive responsibilities and doctoral-level coursework isn’t easy. But at OKWU, students don’t walk alone. Through the encouragement of faculty who genuinely care and a community of peers growing alongside him, Nichols crossed the finish line.
Leadership isn’t about titles. It’s about impacted lives.
Today, with his DBA completed, Dr. Gregory Nichols continues leading Salina Tech with even greater purpose. He exemplifies what’s possible when professional excellence and servant-hearted leadership grow together.
Explore OKWU’s online degrees and how they equip leaders to serve at okwu.edu/gps.