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OBU—Oklahoma Baptist University

Highlights of the Hammond Era at OBU

July 20, 2011


  • Named Dean of Warren M. Angell College of Fine Arts in 1986

  • Friends of the Arts program begun to support the College of Fine Arts

  • Began "Friends of the Arts" newsletter in 1987

  • American Guild of English Handbell Ringers recognized the University Ringers as one of the exemplary college handbell programs in 1990

  • OBU Preparatory Program continued to reach more children with choirs receiving state and national recognition

  • Initiated OBU Oratorio program combining all choral organizations under the direction of nationally known guest conductors; group sang Brahms' "Requiem" with Tulsa Philharmonic in 1990

  • Art Building renovated and remodeled; Arts Annex building acquired

  • Celebrated the 90th birthday of Dean Warren M. Angell in May 1997

  • Potter Auditorium, Yarborough Auditorium, music studios, and classrooms remodeled in 1999-2000; building made handicap accessible; organ console replaced and enlarged to include a four-manual keyboard

  • OBU/Shawnee Community Orchestra inaugurated in 2001 with funding from Kirkpatrick Foundation and in cooperation with University of Oklahoma

  • Craig-Dorland Theater renovated in 2003

  • Division of Music added Worship Arts component in 2006; graphic design major introduced by Department of Art in 2007

  • OBU Theatre's presentation of "As It Is In Heaven" named best play presented at the 2009 Region VI Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival

  • OBU electronic media production students regularly win the majority of top awards in competition with state and regional colleges