OKWU News

Fall/Winter 2026 NEWS

Metcalfs Honored for Years of Service

Metcalfs Honored for Legacy of Faith and Generosity
Roger and Marijean Metcalf were honored at Foster Bonanza 2025, receiving the President’s Award for decades of faithful service. The newly dedicated Metcalf Board Room stands as a lasting tribute to their quiet generosity and enduring impact on generations of OKWU students.

Master’s Programs Expand Graduate Impact
Graduate & Professional Studies launched two new master’s programs for Fall 2026, MS Sports Leadership and MA Counseling Psychology, blending market-driven learning with faith-based leadership. A redesigned MA in Strategic Leadership offers a flexible 30-hour, 12-month pathway focused on leading people and teams. This provides a seamless on-ramp to OKWU’s MBA program.

Nursing Science Symposium

Inaugural Nursing Symposium Connects Professionals
The department of Nursing’s 2026 Implementation Science Symposium welcomed 80 attendees, including alumni, exhibitors, speakers, and volunteers, for a day of innovation and continuing education. Led by Dr. Rosanina Ketchum and Dr. Anna Mangimela, the event strengthened professional connections and featured keynote Dr. Jim Woodard (DNP ’25), who brought practical insights into healthcare innovation.

GO Week Inspires Global Faith and Action
GO Week brought renewed focus to global missions through a parade of nations, worship, teaching, and powerful moments of spiritual response. Rev. Jenn Petersen, CEO of World Hope International, led students to engage deeply with God’s call to go, serve, and live out their faith across cultures and communities.

Spring 2026 NEWS

Dunn Institute Equips Church Leaders for Impact
The annual Dunn Institute featured Dr. Jo Anne Lyon, Ambassador and former General Superintendent of The Wesleyan Church, as keynote speaker. The event created space for pastors and leaders to grow, connect, and be equipped for faithful ministry.

Baptisms Mark a Year of Spiritual Renewal
As part of the “Seek First” chapel theme, five students were baptized in April, publicly declaring their faith in Christ. Led by Rev. Torrey Martin, these moments reflect a campus culture marked by spiritual response, renewal, and a pursuit of God’s calling.

Class of 2026 Sent with Purpose
This year, 170 graduates joined the OKWU alumni family. Representing Fall 2025, Spring 2026, and Summer 2026, the Class of 2026 steps forward ready to live out the call to Be One Sent.

Prof. Brian Turner and summer camp STEM students launching rockets.

Summer 2026 NEWS

Summer Camps Engage and Inspire the Next Generation
OKWU’s 2026 Summer Camps welcomed students of all ages through hands-on learning and creativity. Highlights included the new Mission to Mars STEM camp, Kids’ Theatre productions, and athletic camps that built skills, confidence, and community.

Faculty & Staff News

Faculty and Staff Celebrate Awards
During May graduation ceremonies, Team OKWU was recognized by both student-focused awards and honors from their peers. Dr. Brian Turner received Faculty Member of the Year, and the Staff Members of the Year are Aaron Bunker and Stevan Djukic. 

See a need. Meet it.
Congrats to our Be One Sent Award recipients, honored at our final Spring 2026 chapel. Ellie Haskins (Nursing '26), Dr. Stacey Duke (Associate Dean of CESB & Professor of Business), and Scott Tinsley (Facilities Maintenance Supervisor)

Faculty Achievements Reflect Academic Strength
OKWU faculty continue to advance scholarship and leadership. Dr. Eric Peterson completed his terminal degree, Dr. Jerome Van Kuiken published and presented nationally, Dr. Ackrion Mangimela was promoted to associate professor, and Dr. Josh McNall was promoted to full professor.