OC Diversity
OC encourages and supports individuality. We believe our community is one where you can be yourself, ask questions, explore, debate and grow as you learn about the world. Let’s join together in learning, changing and growing our faith.
OC’s 18
Fifty years to the day that 18 students risked their education by courageously standing up to administration, Oklahoma Christian University honored those who had been punished based on their decision to participate in a sit-in in the President's office. On March 6, 2019, seven of the 18 students visited the campus and were welcomed with a standing ovation and an apology from President John deSteiguer.
“And to you, as president of Oklahoma Christian University, I apologize for the way that you all were treated 50 years ago this morning.”
History Speaks
In 2014, OC, championed by Gary Jones, began History Speaks, welcoming Carlotta Walls LaNier and Terrence Roberts of the Little Rock Nine to speak on their civil rights experiences. Since then, OC has hosted many prominent civil rights leaders, inviting them to teach the campus and community the importance of community, respect and taking time to listen.
Faculty Spotlight
We have long recognized the need to add African American Studies courses to our offerings,” said Dr. Tina Winn, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts. “We are truly blessed that an award-winning historian and leader such as Robert Edison will bring his personal and professional experiences with civil rights history to OC’s College of Liberal Arts.
Robert Edison / Visiting Professor of American Studies in Racial and Ethnic Diversity
John Thompson Scholarship
The John Thompson Leadership Program is named for one of Oklahoma Christian University’s most beloved and remarkable scholars. It will provide you with leadership training, mentoring and opportunities to engage in service learning and important campus, church and community initiatives. The required reading program helps you develop into a well-rounded, conscientious, spiritual leader.
Civil Rights Tour
Travel the country exploring important Civil Rights landmarks.
Oklahoma Christian University’s annual Spring Break Civil Rights Movement Tour goes to important sites in Little Rock, Memphis, Montgomery, Jackson, Tuskegee, Birmingham and more.
OC students have the opportunity to touch history at the National Civil Rights Museum, the Rosa Parks Center and Museum, Little Rock Central High School, the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, the home of Medgar Evers in Jackson and other stops on the tour. There, they can learn to better understand the civil rights movement.
Our OC Family
Advocate for your peers on campus!
Black Student Union
OC’s Black Student Union is an organization that advocates for OC’s black student population. They host events celebrating Black History Month and weekly chapels. On social media, OC’s BSU posts about civil rights leaders, black history, upcoming events and leaders in the community.
Check them out on social media!