Okla. Christian Univ. President Will Not Seek Longer Term
On the heels of celebrating the 60th anniversary of Oklahoma Christian University, president Mike O'Neal announced on Monday that he will not be seeking a longer term, giving notice to the board that they should begin a transition process for a new president.
O'Neal, who has served in his role since 2002, is expected to step down in June 2012 when his 10-year term commitment concludes. He notified the board of his plan Thursday.
In an announcement on the university's website, O'Neal said he wanted to give the board enough time to make an "orderly transition to the next president."
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"There is much we want to see accomplished in the next 19 months so the next leadership has an even stronger foundation on which to build," writes the OC president. "We will continue operations as usual-which at OC means a constant striving for excellence and greatness for the glory of God. "
O'Neal joined Oklahoma Christian University after serving at Pepperdine University from 1976 to 2002 as general counsel and vice president for finance and administration. Both universities were founded by and are affiliated with the Church of Christ.
"We will work closely with President O'Neal, the University community and many others to ensure the time is well invested," said Don Millican, chairman of the Board of Trustees, in a letter to the OC community.
A presidential search committee will probably be formed next year, according to OC spokesman Ron Frost.
Founded in 1950 as Central Christian College, Oklahoma Christian University is now a comprehensive Christian university serving more than 2,000 students. OC's 200 plus-acre campus is located in northeast Oklahoma City, the state capital.
