ORU HISTORY
From the moment people set foot on the campus of Oral Roberts University, they realize
it is a one-of-a-kind place, with an array of faceted gold and glass buildings centered
around the modernistic cross-shaped Prayer Tower.
ORU was birthed as the result of a mandate God gave founder Oral Roberts to “...build Me a university based on My authority and the Holy Spirit.” God’s commission to Oral Roberts was to “Raise up your students to hear My voice, to go where My light is seen dim, My voice is heard small, and My healing power is not known, even to the uttermost bounds of the earth. Their work will exceed yours, and in this, I am well pleased.”
This private Christian liberal arts institution held its first classes in 1965 with 300 undergraduate students. ORU's dedication took place in 1967, with the Reverend Dr. Billy Graham as the keynote speaker.
GOLDEN EAGLE PRIDE
ORU is a Division I NCAA athletic participant and a member of the Summit League. The
Golden Eagles have 16 varsity sports: eight sports each for men (baseball, basketball,
cross-country, golf, indoor and outdoor track and field, soccer, and tennis) and women
(volleyball, basketball, cross-country, golf, indoor and outdoor track and field,
soccer and tennis). Tryouts for varsity sports are held after school starts and are
open to all students. Questions regarding varsity sports should be directed to the
ORU Athletic Office at 918.495.7151.
ORU’s mascot, the Golden Eagle, is named Eli. His name stands for Education, Life Skills, and Integrity. ORU colors are navy blue, gold, and white. Blue symbolizes faith in God; gold represents the riches of heaven, the riches of God, and the rewards of a right relationship with God; white represents wholesome living and purity.
FIGHT SONG
Golden Eagles, ORU!
None defeats the GOLD and BLUE!
Victory is just in sight
So come on, Eagles
FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT!
Golden Eagles, ORU!
None defeats the GOLD and BLUE!
Shout it louder
Scream it prouder
O-R-U!