OAKLAND CITY—On Friday, November 1, Oakland City University will celebrate the 139th year of its founding. The 2024 OCU Board of Trustees has invited the largest student body on the Oakland City, Indiana campus since World War II, their faculty, OCU staff, and alumni to participate in a historical program, enjoy a meal, and receive updates about the University. The evening will conclude with a Gospel Night concert.
Founded in 1885 by the General Baptist, the University began on ten acres donated by Col. William Cockrum and his wife, Lucretia. Classes first convened in 1891 in rented spaces, with the completion of the first building, a two-story brick structure, in 1892.
This year, Oakland City University celebrates significant achievements, including a 10.2% year-over-year increase in enrollment and an impressive 51% rise over the past four years. OCU continues to fulfill its mission of promoting social advancement and mobility, earning recognition as the fifth-best university in the nation according to U.S. News and World Report’s 2024-2025 Best Colleges rankings.
OCU President Dr. Ron Dempsey remarked, “The growth in our academic and athletic programs has fostered a renewed atmosphere on campus. Our students, professors, and student-athletes are achieving remarkable successes, contributing to a sense of pride and accomplishment that elevates our university. While we’ve faced challenges throughout our 139-year history, the grace of God has guided us. We anticipate more challenges, but we envision a future rich in academic and athletic innovation and success. I couldn’t be more excited about what lies ahead for OCU.”
The celebration will culminate with a Gospel concert featuring the award-winning Hoppers and Triumphant Quartet. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. CT at OCU’s Johnson Center, and the concert will begin at 7:00 p.m. CT.
Tickets are limited and available for purchase at https://www.oak.edu/gospel-night/.
