Ouachita Baptist University (OBU), located in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. Established in 1886, the institution has grown to become a notable center for higher education in the region, offering a wide range of academic programs, fostering Christian values, and preparing students for lives of service and leadership. The university’s campus, nestled in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains and along the banks of the Ouachita River, creates a picturesque setting for academic pursuits.
Historical Background
Ouachita Baptist University has a rich and storied history that began in 1886 when the Arkansas Baptist State Convention recognized the need for a higher education institution in the region. The town of Arkadelphia was chosen due to its central location and access to transportation via the Ouachita River and nearby railroads. Originally, the institution was called Ouachita Baptist College, reflecting its primary mission to provide a Christian-centered education.
From its inception, Ouachita aimed to equip students with a solid academic foundation grounded in Christian values. The college initially offered classes in biblical studies, literature, and the liberal arts, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for both ministry and secular vocations. Over time, the college expanded its academic offerings and, in 1965, officially became Ouachita Baptist University to reflect its growing reputation and range of degree programs.
Mission and Core Values
The mission of Ouachita Baptist University is to provide an educational experience that combines academic excellence with a commitment to the Christian faith. The university seeks to foster a supportive community where students can develop spiritually, intellectually, and socially. It emphasizes a holistic approach to education, encouraging students to explore their academic interests while growing in their faith and understanding of the world around them.
The core values of Ouachita Baptist University center on four key pillars: faith, scholarship, service, and community. The university promotes the integration of faith and learning, where academic study is seen as a means to grow closer to God and serve others. It also encourages academic rigor and curiosity, pushing students to explore new ideas and develop critical thinking skills. Service is a significant component of the Ouachita experience, with students being encouraged to engage in missions, community service, and outreach programs. Finally, the sense of community is central to campus life, with students, faculty, and staff forming close-knit relationships based on mutual respect and shared values.
Academics
Ouachita Baptist University offers a comprehensive array of academic programs, with more than 60 undergraduate majors, minors, and pre-professional programs across a range of disciplines. The university is organized into several schools and departments, each dedicated to a specific area of study:
- School of Humanities: This school houses programs in English, history, philosophy, and languages. It emphasizes critical thinking, communication skills, and a broad understanding of human cultures and societies.
- Patterson School of Natural Sciences: Offering programs in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, the Patterson School is known for its emphasis on research and hands-on learning opportunities. Many students in this school pursue careers in medicine, research, or education.
- School of Fine Arts: The Fine Arts school encompasses music, theater, and visual arts programs. Ouachita is particularly well known for its music program, which includes vocal and instrumental performance, music education, and worship arts.
- Hickingbotham School of Business: Named after OBU alumnus and philanthropist J.E. Hickingbotham, this school provides programs in accounting, finance, marketing, and business administration. It emphasizes ethical leadership and entrepreneurship.
- Pruet School of Christian Studies: As a Baptist institution, Ouachita places a strong emphasis on Christian studies. The Pruet School offers degrees in theology, biblical studies, Christian ministry, and philosophy, preparing students for ministry, missions, and further academic study in theology.
- Huckabee School of Education: The education programs at OBU focus on preparing students to become teachers and administrators in elementary and secondary schools. The Huckabee School offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in education.
- School of Social Sciences: This school includes programs in psychology, sociology, political science, and criminal justice. It focuses on understanding human behavior, social systems, and governance.
Student Life and Extracurricular Activities
Ouachita Baptist University is known for its vibrant campus life, where students are encouraged to engage in a variety of extracurricular activities that promote personal growth, leadership, and service. The university offers numerous opportunities for involvement in clubs, organizations, athletics, and religious life.
- Religious Life: As a Christian university, Ouachita places a significant emphasis on spiritual development. The campus community regularly gathers for chapel services, Bible studies, and worship events. The university’s Campus Ministries program offers mission trips, service projects, and outreach opportunities both locally and internationally. Many students participate in mission trips during their time at OBU, furthering the university’s commitment to service and global engagement.
- Athletics: Ouachita Baptist University is a member of the NCAA Division II and competes in the Great American Conference. The university fields teams in a variety of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, soccer, tennis, and volleyball. The OBU Tigers have a strong athletic tradition, and the football team is known for its annual rivalry game against neighboring Henderson State University, known as the “Battle of the Ravine.”
- Greek Life: Fraternities and sororities play a significant role in student life at Ouachita. The Greek system is a popular way for students to form close friendships, engage in philanthropic activities, and develop leadership skills. Greek organizations at OBU include national and local fraternities and sororities, each with a focus on service, scholarship, and community.
- Student Organizations: Beyond Greek life, Ouachita offers a wide variety of student organizations, including academic clubs, honor societies, cultural groups, and service organizations. These groups provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and give back to the community.
- Intramural Sports and Recreation: For students who want to stay active but are not part of varsity athletics, OBU offers a robust intramural sports program. Students can participate in sports such as flag football, soccer, basketball, and volleyball in a more casual and fun setting.
Campus and Facilities
Ouachita Baptist University is situated on a beautiful 200-acre campus in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. The campus blends historic buildings with modern facilities, creating an environment that is both charming and conducive to learning. Notable campus landmarks include:
Berry Chapel: A central location for worship services and campus events, Berry Chapel serves as a spiritual gathering place for students and faculty.
Moses-Provine Hall: This building houses the administrative offices and several academic departments. Its historic architecture reflects the university’s long-standing tradition.
Walker Conference Center: A multipurpose facility that hosts conferences, lectures, banquets, and student events.
Jones Science Center: The hub for natural science research and learning, featuring state-of-the-art laboratories and classrooms.
Hickingbotham Hall: The home of the School of Business, equipped with modern technology and spaces for collaborative learning.
Lile Hall: A newer addition to campus, Lile Hall houses the School of Humanities and features classrooms and faculty offices designed for interactive learning.
In addition to academic buildings, OBU offers residential facilities that promote community living. Most students live on campus in dormitories or apartment-style housing, fostering a close-knit community where friendships and relationships are easily formed.
Community Engagement and Service
Service is a key component of Ouachita Baptist University’s identity. The university encourages students to engage in service both locally and globally. Many students volunteer in the Arkadelphia community, working with local schools, churches, and non-profit organizations to address needs such as education, poverty alleviation, and healthcare. Additionally, OBU’s commitment to international service is reflected in its Global Opportunities (GO) program, which sends students and faculty on mission trips around the world. These trips allow participants to serve in a variety of capacities, from teaching English in Africa to building homes in Central America.
Notable Alumni
Ouachita Baptist University boasts a long list of distinguished alumni who have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields, including ministry, education, business, and the arts. Some notable alumni include:
Mike Huckabee: Former Governor of Arkansas and 2008 Republican presidential candidate, Huckabee is a well-known political figure and media commentator.
Robert Jeffress: Senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, and a prominent figure in Christian broadcasting.
Betty Lou Shipley: An accomplished poet and former Arkansas Poet Laureate.
Cliff Harris: Former Dallas Cowboys safety and member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
These alumni exemplify the university’s mission of fostering leadership, service, and Christian values in their respective fields.
Conclusion
Ouachita Baptist University remains a beacon of Christian higher education in the heart of Arkansas. With a rich history, a commitment to academic excellence, and a focus on service, OBU prepares its students for both professional success and lives of purpose. Its nurturing environment, grounded in faith and community, makes Ouachita a unique and influential institution that continues to shape future leaders in Arkansas and beyond.