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OBU—Oklahoma Baptist University

Campus Construction Updates

October 21, 2025

Hello Bison Nation,

Here’s the latest on OBU’s ongoing construction projects and campus enhancements, including updates for Shawnee Hall, Thurmond Hall, Raley Chapel, Ford Hall, sidewalk projects, and tree plantings. Thanks again to OBU Project Manager Ryan Grider for providing these updates!

Shawnee Hall

Shawnee Hall landscaping

Landscape installation has reached substantial completion, marking the conclusion of all exterior work on Shawnee Hall. OBU Grounds personnel are collaborating with landscape partner LivOutdoors to ensure that the plant material and sod establish properly heading into the winter months.

Inside, final punch list items are being completed in preparation for the grand opening on October 24, 2025, at 10 a.m. This milestone will celebrate the renewal of one of OBU’s most historic academic spaces.

Thurmond Hall

Thurmond Hall, 3rd Floor
Thurmond Hall, 2nd Floor

The exterior repairs that have been underway for several months are wrapping up, with landscaping and irrigation work now in progress. OBU Facilities staff and LivOutdoors expect to complete this phase by October 23, 2025.

Inside Thurmond Hall, visible progress continues at a rapid pace. Texture and paint are now complete throughout the building. On the second floor, ductwork and insulation are finished, with ceiling grid and electrical rough-in nearing completion. On the third floor, electrical rough-in, ductwork, fire suppression, ceiling grid, data cabling, and restroom tilework are complete, as is HVAC and fire suppression work in the attic.

Upcoming tasks include millwork installation, plumbing fixtures, and other detailed finishes on both floors. OBU Facilities and Lingo Construction personnel remain on track for completion by the end of the fall semester and a spring grand opening.

Raley Chapel

Fencing around Raley Chapel grounds

Construction fencing is now in place around the seven-acre Raley Chapel construction site—a significant first step in what will be a two-year project and the largest renovation project ever undertaken by the university.

Bids are coming in for various trade packages under review by Lingo Construction, and official construction work is scheduled to begin in November. This monumental renovation marks a new era for one of OBU’s most iconic landmarks, and we look forward to sharing updates as progress continues.

Ford Hall

Ford Hall is receiving new planting beds at the front of the building, a project being completed entirely in-house by OBU Facilities Services Grounds staff and student workers. The team is tracking a completion date of October 23, 2025.

Sidewalk Projects

OBU Facilities has completed the installation of multiple new sidewalks to safely reroute pedestrian traffic around the Raley Chapel construction zone. These new walkways provide safe, ADA-compliant paths connecting the east and west sides of campus. We’re excited to see students, faculty, and staff already making great use of them!

Tree Planting

In conjunction with the landscape projects at Shawnee Hall and Ford Hall, OBU has added 10 new tree species and varieties to the campus Arboretum. These additions enhance the diversity and beauty of the urban forest on Bison Hill.

Shawnee Hall

  • Bloodgood Japanese Maple
  • Kousa Dogwood
  • Dynamite Crape Myrtle
  • Little Gem Dwarf Southern Magnolia
  • Bracken’s Brown Beauty Magnolia
  • Gold Cone Deodar Cedar
  • Princeton Sentry Ginkgo

Ford Hall

  • Columnar Blue Atlas Cedar
  • Royal White Redbud
  • Cathedral Live Oak

OBU Grounds staff remain dedicated to expanding and diversifying the campus landscape, ensuring that Bison Hill continues to thrive for generations to come.

Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm as we work together to shape the future of OBU! Stay tuned for more updates as these projects progress.