Reconnecting with OBU Friends: A Journey of Faith, Leadership, and Destiny at ACBSP Conference
July 13, 2024
At the ACBSP Conference, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with two former colleagues from Oklahoma Baptist University, Dr. David Houghton and Dr. Rick Martinez. Dr. Houghton recruited me to OBU in 2016, inspiring me to be a change agent for a global mission as a Christian. He gifted me a magical Nehemiah coin, a foundational element in the Nehemiah Strategy I now employ as Dean of the Langston School of Business.
Rick and I were hired at OBU around the same time, and he and David had a longstanding friendship. I will never forget Rick’s impact on my academic journey. When I was a doctoral student at Regent University, Rick was a guest speaker, sharing his insights on scholarly and popular press writing. His words transformed my world, inspiring me to pursue research and academic publications. At OBU, I enjoyed collaborating with Rick as a colleague and David as my dean. Although Rick eventually moved to a different university and I transitioned to my role as dean, our paths crossed again at ACBSP, reminding me of the importance of lasting professional relationships.
Our reconnection at the conference was a testament to the enduring bonds we formed through our shared mission and commitment to the Great Commission. I am grateful for their friendship and the opportunity to continue learning and growing together. The ACBSP Conference offered professional development and networking and reaffirmed the value of these meaningful connections. I look forward to returning this renewed inspiration to Langston University, further strengthening our mission and impact.
