Memories of OBU in honor of Founder's Day

Today I have been asked by a friend who works for OBU (Hey Lori!) to write a small tribute to my college. I am more than happy to do that, as I had a wonderful college experience. I chose OBU because I was looking for a Christian college that was away from home, but not too far that I couldn't come home for a weekend if I wanted to. My dad took me to an OBU Open House in Memphis, and we met Mike Arrington. We were both impressed with all those we met. It then became a choice between Mississippi College and Ouachita. They were both great schools, but OBU came through with more scholarships, so my decision was made.

I did not know anyone else heading to OBU. I had to sign up for a roommate. Since I didn't know anyone, I said, "How about a girl from Texas?!" (Afterall, I grew up a die hard Cowboys fan!) and God provided me with great roommates every year.

While at Ouachita, I grew in so many ways. I made deep and lasting friendships that continue to this day. I received a wonderful education, one that has served me well. I married a lawyer, who became an overseas school administrator in Singapore. Then, we helped start a school in Turkey. My elementary education degree has been helpful in all the classes he's stuck me in!

While at Ouachita, I decided to try to graduate a year early to save money. I took 18 hour semesters and went to summer school. I developed good relationships with professors. My final year at OBU, Jeanna Westmoreland and others recommended me for a scholarship (unbeknownst to me) that nearly paid for my final year. God provided in every way.

On my graduation day in 1993, my older brother graduated on the same day from University of Memphis. A dear friend (and pilot) offered to fly my family down in a tiny plane so they could see us both graduate on the same day. My brother walked across his stage, took his diploma, and promptly walked right out the door. Then they all piled in a little 4 seater plane and flew down to Arkadelphia. I had left my car in the tiny airport with keys on the wheel. They drove to my graduation and made it just in time to see me walk across the stage.

The slogan for OBU back in 1990 when I started was, "The Best of Life" and truly it was. The three years I spent there and the investment it made in my life are truly some of the best.

Here's my family, pictured in the country we now call home...Turkey.
And how could I post about OBU without including this picture? Tough girls still made sure to have big hair...

I am blessed with lifelong friendships from my OBU days.

And my experiences in those years have served me well in all that God had planned for my life.

Thanks, OBU, and Happy Founder's Day!