SHAWNEE—Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) will celebrate the grand re-opening of Thurmond Hall with a ribbon-cutting at 11:30 a.m. March 6, marking a milestone for a rapidly growing engineering program now in just its third year.
The OBU community, partners and friends are all invited to attend.
Thurmond Hall’s future shaping renewal was driven primarily by the need to house OBU’s expanding electrical and mechanical engineering programs. While the building sustained some tornado damage on April 19, 2023, the renovation reflects the university’s continued investment in hands-on engineering, as well as in the Paul Dickinson School of Business’s computer science program and cybersecurity education as part of its Shape the Future campaign.
The engineering program has grown well beyond early projections. In the 2023–2024 academic year, the program enrolled 37 students, far exceeding the projected 12. Enrollment increased to 56 students in 2024–2025, surpassing a projection of 40. For the current 2025–2026 academic year, enrollment has reached 84 students, ahead of its projected total of 67.
“We’re not building engineers, we’re building future leaders,” said Chuck Baukal, director of the OBU engineering program.
The renewed Thurmond Hall brings aerospace, engineering, computer science and cybersecurity education together in one space. New features include an Aerolab Educational Wind Tunnel capable of producing wind speeds up to 145 mph. The wind tunnel was generously provided through a collaboration between OBU and the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics. Thurmond Hall also features a ground-display Firejet drone built and donated by Kratos Defense.
It is also home to computer science and an exciting new cybersecurity lab designed for hands-on instruction using physical servers, firewalls and routers.
Baukal said, “The renewal of Thurmond Hall reflects OBU’s four institutional pillars. The updated facility supports rigorous academics through hands-on engineering , computer science and cybersecurity instruction while fostering a connected and engaged learning environment among students, faculty and industry partners.”
Its applied focus is designed to prepare students for what’s next by equipping them with practical experience tied to growing workforce needs. As part of a faith-forward education, the space also supports OBU’s commitment to developing engineers who approach their work with purpose, integrity and service.
The March 6 ceremony will recognize the completion of the Thurmond Hall renewal and represents the latest facility project completed under the Shape the Future campaign.
Raley Chapel, a towering symbol of OBU’s spiritual and cultural commitment, is the next campaign milestone. Raley Chapel has been a cornerstone of OBU campus life since its dedication in 1961. Although the iconic structure withstood the April 2023 tornado, it sustained significant damage, leading to the longest closure of its doors in nearly 62 years. The restoration of Raley Chapel stands as a powerful symbol of OBU’s resilient spirit and vibrant future.
To be a part of the Shape the Future Campaign, go to okbu.edu/giving/shape-the-future.
