$1.45 Million Grant from Tandy Foundation Boosts ORU’s Expanding Computing & Mathematics Department

Tulsa, Oklahoma, April 26, 2024 — Oral Roberts University (ORU) is delighted to announce a transformative $1.45 million grant from the A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Foundation. This substantial investment is earmarked for the enhancement and expansion of the Computing & Mathematics Department, which has grown in enrollment by over 350% in the past decade. The funding will underwrite renovations and the creation of advanced research spaces, including the: 

• Nanotechnology Lab,
• Plasma Physics Research Lab,
• Artificial Intelligence Lab,
• Game Development Lab,
• Drone Arena,
• Edge Computing Lab, and
• Network Administration Lab.

Additionally, the grant will facilitate the introduction of a summer coding camp, further broadening ORU's impact by nurturing the technological skills of the next generation. 

Dr. Andrew Lang, Chair of the Computing & Mathematics Department, shared his enthusiasm saying, "We are profoundly grateful for this donation from the A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Foundation. It represents a pivotal advancement in our mission to deliver an unparalleled educational experience. Our new facilities will immerse students in the most current technologies, preparing them for thriving careers in the ever-changing tech landscape."

ORU’s Edge Computing Lab will revolutionize classroom engagement, placing students at the forefront of computing technologies. "This facility is not just about equipping our students with marketable skills—it's about fostering collaboration and interdisciplinary teamwork, which are crucial in today's tech-driven world," explained Assistant Professor of Computer Science Dr. Jan Wörner, who will spearhead the lab's operations and oversee the development of the drone arena. 

The Drone Arena will feature a flying zone and a secure control room, offering a dynamic setting where students pilot and program autonomous drones. This practical experience is crucial for mastering modern drone technology and advancing careers in drone operations, AI, and edge computing.

Additionally, the Nanotechnology Research Lab, the Artificial Intelligence Lab, and the Game Development Lab are set to receive substantial financial support. These labs will offer students avenues to partake in groundbreaking research and hone skills in fields with soaring demand, aligning with new AI curriculum offerings at both undergraduate and graduate levels and the new Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology - Game Design and Development.

ORU’s Game Design and Development concentration is designed to immerse students in a broad spectrum of development and design processes in game design, programming, art, and sound. Students will produce playable games for various platforms, such as PCs, consoles, and mobile devices.

This grant reaffirms ORU's commitment to technological advancements in Spirit-empowered education, equipping students to excel globally, and leading the way in societal contributions.

For information, please visit ORU’s Computing & Mathematics Department.

ORU students in Computer Information Technology Lab

UNIVERSITY BRIEF

ORU is a Christian, Spirit-empowered, interdenominational university in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with 15 years of consecutive enrollment growth. Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ORU offers over 150 majors, minors, concentrations, and pre-professional programs at the bachelor’s level, ranging from business and engineering to nursing, ministry, and more. Under the leadership of President Dr. William Wilson, ORU is preparing students from all 50 states and 152 nations in the last four years to be whole leaders for the whole world.

The Wall Street Journal ranked ORU as the #8 university in the nation for student experience and one of America's Best Colleges (2024). This new category rates the best colleges in the U.S. to have a great experience while attending. This ranking is powered by one of the largest ever independent surveys of verified college students and recent graduates in the United States. Niche recognizes ORU as one of the top 25 most diverse colleges in America, # 1 best Christian college in Oklahoma, and # 1 in Oklahoma for diversity. Princeton Review ranked ORU as the best regional college, and College Raptor ranked ORU as a Hidden Gem in the Southwest.

ORU has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report as:

• #1 in Undergraduate Teaching
• #2 in Most International Students
• #3 in Best Value
• #6 in Best College for Veterans
• #7 in Best Regional Colleges in the West

For more information, visit www.oru.edu.