In April, Ycedra Daughty was the inaugural inductee into the OBU Walter O. Mason, Jr. Kingdom Diversity Hall of Fame. OBU President Dr. Heath A. Thomas presented the award to Daughty as she was inducted. Daughty, a renowned educator and community leader, made an indelible mark during her more than 40 years in public service.
Nominations Sought for the Walter O. Mason, Jr. Kingdom Diversity Hall of Fame Award
October 3, 2024
Oklahoma Baptist University is continuing a significant journey of recognizing and honoring individuals whose lives are dedicated to promoting and advancing Kingdom diversity. This is rooted in the value of people from all nations, kindreds, peoples and tongues, as described in Revelation 7:9.
A year ago OBU initiated the Walter O. Mason, Jr. Kingdom Diversity Hall of Fame Award, and is again reaching out to the community for nominations to identify individuals who are truly deserving of this honor.
OBU will honor the winner at an event each year and induct them into the Walter O. Mason, Jr. Kingdom Diversity Hall of Fame. Additionally, the winner will receive a personalized trophy and a $1,000 cash award.
To be eligible for nomination, a candidate must have a connection with OBU, either as a current or former faculty member, adjunct professor, administrator, staff member, student, or contractor. This broad spectrum of eligibility ensures that individuals from various roles within the OBU community can be considered for this esteemed recognition.
The nomination process is open to anyone within the community who knows of a qualified candidate meeting the stated criteria. This inclusivity allows for the discovery of individuals who have made meaningful contributions to Kingdom diversity.
The award seeks to recognize individuals who exemplify a set of admirable attributes, including: Making a significant, positive difference in the community, within an organization, or in the lives of marginalized individuals such as racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic minorities or otherwise disenfranchised persons; modeling a pattern of dedication or service to others with a particular focus on marginalized groups; serving as change agents who have engendered conditions for positive change to manifest in the realm of Kingdom diversity; demonstrating Christian character in everyday life; and exemplifying excellence in their chosen field, profession, academic pursuits, or other honorable endeavors.
The selection process involves consideration by a specially designated committee responsible for the Kingdom Diversity Hall of Fame Award. This committee will select a winner and submit its recommendation to the President and cabinet for confirmation.
The culminating event will be the award presentation, scheduled for January 18, 2025 on the OBU campus. This event, including the award presentation and reception, will be open to the public at no cost, but reservations will be required.
November 30 is the deadline for the submission of nominations.
“By taking the time to nominate an outstanding individual who exemplifies the high value OBU places on Kingdom diversity, you contribute to the celebration of those who have worked diligently to promote this important cause,” said B.J. Glover, OBU vice-president for university culture. “Your participation will help positively impact the lives of others and reinforce the commitment to Kingdom diversity at OBU.”
Nomination forms are available at okbu.cc/kdhof or by contacting Glover at beverly.glover@okbu.edu or 405.323.2940.